Hi readers, hope everyone had a great holiday. I must have been a naughty girl this year...again...since Santa forgot to visit me once more :(
Did not do anything special, just stayed home. I overheard mom tell my uncle that she wanted to eat Bacalao (cod fish) a traditional Christmas dish in some Latin American countries. Since I had some in the freezer, attempted to make it for our Christmas dinner.
I have made it before after watching countless YouTube videos but I do not know what happened this time...it was awful!!!
We have had absolutely beautiful weather in the 80's. That is up until this morning. We had high winds, sleet, and snow flurries. Called my nice Houston neighbor to inquire about the tornado warnings and weather in my neighborhood...but she was asleep at noon and again early this evening.
Garland Girl, hope you and your family are alright. Thought about you when I watched the news.
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
Spurs Corner
I do not know how I could call myself a Spurs fan, when I forgot to watch the game last night! Good thing we won. Why did I not forget to watch the game against the Houston Rockets? Now, that was forgettable!
Terlingua Dreams
Governors Landing Campground - Lake Amistad - Del Rio, Texas
Sunday, December 27, 2015
Sunday, December 20, 2015
Hoping to stay home till after Christmas
The only reason I drove to town Friday was to pick up mom's medication and pay the water bill. Since I was already out and about I decided to go to Walmart. I must have picked the perfect hour as believe it or not I did not encounter any mob scenes.
Checked out computer prices but I did not see that they have been discounted...at least not the model I have my eyes on. Oh well, maybe in January or February when the tax stuff goes on sale?
Been asked why I want a big desktop instead of a laptop. The reason is so I can show Mom the pictures our family sends. That and the fact that neither one of us has good eye sight anymore. I would like to set it up in a dedicated area and get her more involved in its use.
Mexico turns off its analog signal at the end of the year. Other cities like Mexico City did so last week. Along the Texas / Coahuila border I am still using my old TV. Andy, in case you are reading this have a seat...I still use my VCR to tape shows....jajajajaja :D
Needless to say there were a lot of people from Mexico buying up HDTV's at some very reasonable prices even with the high dollar exchange rates.
Mexican news reported that International bridges have long lines both ways. This particular reporter was in Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua across the border from El Paso, Texas. The lines to cross to the USA were taking up to FOUR hours! There is nothing I need or want that badly to endure a wait of that magnitude.
Was hoping not to have to go to the store until after Christmas but two light bulbs of the "curly type" that claim to last anywhere from 7 to 9 years...ended lasting a mere two years and 3 months. What a rip off! Then again what is a few burnt out light bulbs?
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
Checked out computer prices but I did not see that they have been discounted...at least not the model I have my eyes on. Oh well, maybe in January or February when the tax stuff goes on sale?
Been asked why I want a big desktop instead of a laptop. The reason is so I can show Mom the pictures our family sends. That and the fact that neither one of us has good eye sight anymore. I would like to set it up in a dedicated area and get her more involved in its use.
Mexico turns off its analog signal at the end of the year. Other cities like Mexico City did so last week. Along the Texas / Coahuila border I am still using my old TV. Andy, in case you are reading this have a seat...I still use my VCR to tape shows....jajajajaja :D
Needless to say there were a lot of people from Mexico buying up HDTV's at some very reasonable prices even with the high dollar exchange rates.
Mexican news reported that International bridges have long lines both ways. This particular reporter was in Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua across the border from El Paso, Texas. The lines to cross to the USA were taking up to FOUR hours! There is nothing I need or want that badly to endure a wait of that magnitude.
Was hoping not to have to go to the store until after Christmas but two light bulbs of the "curly type" that claim to last anywhere from 7 to 9 years...ended lasting a mere two years and 3 months. What a rip off! Then again what is a few burnt out light bulbs?
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
Thursday, December 17, 2015
Turned the table on the Doc
We had a 3:00 p.m. doctor's appointment in Uvalde, Texas today. Anticipating that we would have our usual two to three hour wait and the fact that it gets dark by 6:00 p.m. I decided it might be a good idea to spend the night in Uvalde.
On our last visit he still had a room full of patients when we left and I fully anticipated the same scenario this time around. I decided I was tired of waiting hours and did not arrive until 4:12 p.m.
What would be my surprise but to find only two people in the waiting room. We were called within 15 minutes of arrival, saw the doctor and were out the door by 5:00 p.m. With enough daylight we made it home shortly after sunset.
I think perhaps the holidays had a lot to do with it? Actually, I do not know that for a fact but it sure felt good to turn the table on the doctor for a change :)
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
On our last visit he still had a room full of patients when we left and I fully anticipated the same scenario this time around. I decided I was tired of waiting hours and did not arrive until 4:12 p.m.
What would be my surprise but to find only two people in the waiting room. We were called within 15 minutes of arrival, saw the doctor and were out the door by 5:00 p.m. With enough daylight we made it home shortly after sunset.
I think perhaps the holidays had a lot to do with it? Actually, I do not know that for a fact but it sure felt good to turn the table on the doctor for a change :)
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
An early but productive day
Yesterday I woke up very early (for me) as something kept nagging at me...and it wasn't my mother...jajajaja :D
The telephone had been out since Sunday. I made an online appointment which was confirmed TWICE by Verizon via e-mail...it stated that the arrival time would be 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.
I took out the trash early and opened the gate in preparation for their afternoon arrival as I was also going to head down to Stripes to buy breakfast.
All the neighbor dogs started barking and I heard the motor of a heavy vehicle...sure enough it was the phone guy! Went outside to greet him and to let him know that I had an afternoon appointment and that my mother was asleep.
He stated that he could come back in the afternoon if I wanted but he was more than sure that he would not need to come inside the house. With that cleared up, I told him to go ahead. Sure enough the problem was at the pole, the wear and tear on the cable had snapped the line.
In reality it was a blessing in disguise as it wasn't even 9:00 a.m. and the problem was solved. Decided to take advantage of this and tackle the dreaded trip to the laundromat. I spent a little shy of four hours there. You do not know how good it felt to strike that off of my To Do List.
Once again I can not wish you a good night and Terlingua Dreams as it's morning...so have a great day instead.
Spurs Corner
We are playing so good! With a comfortable lead in the fourth quarter Pop is emptying out the bench and showcasing the talent and future potential of these young players.
Go Spurs Go!
The telephone had been out since Sunday. I made an online appointment which was confirmed TWICE by Verizon via e-mail...it stated that the arrival time would be 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.
I took out the trash early and opened the gate in preparation for their afternoon arrival as I was also going to head down to Stripes to buy breakfast.
All the neighbor dogs started barking and I heard the motor of a heavy vehicle...sure enough it was the phone guy! Went outside to greet him and to let him know that I had an afternoon appointment and that my mother was asleep.
He stated that he could come back in the afternoon if I wanted but he was more than sure that he would not need to come inside the house. With that cleared up, I told him to go ahead. Sure enough the problem was at the pole, the wear and tear on the cable had snapped the line.
Once again I can not wish you a good night and Terlingua Dreams as it's morning...so have a great day instead.
Spurs Corner
We are playing so good! With a comfortable lead in the fourth quarter Pop is emptying out the bench and showcasing the talent and future potential of these young players.
Go Spurs Go!
Wednesday, December 16, 2015
Spruced up campgrounds
It had been a while since I had visited the Amistad National Recreational Area campgrounds in particular San Pedro. I am happy to report that it has been spruced up. For one it has new signs.
Theygrated graded the roads (is that the correct terminology?)
They have also been busy trimming the trees
However, they did an awful job on the Billy Bob tree!
They still need to mow your yard Billy Bob...as usual your camping spot is all lonesome.
This is where I wish you a good night and Terlingua Dreams but I fell asleep watching TV last night and did not do my post. Have been up since 6:00 a.m. an oddity for me :D
They
They have also been busy trimming the trees
However, they did an awful job on the Billy Bob tree!
They still need to mow your yard Billy Bob...as usual your camping spot is all lonesome.
This is where I wish you a good night and Terlingua Dreams but I fell asleep watching TV last night and did not do my post. Have been up since 6:00 a.m. an oddity for me :D
Sunday, December 13, 2015
Cholesterol laden food / No phone service
I can not believe a whole week has gone by since my last post. As usual I have been busy with doctor's appointments...for a change it was me who finally went to see one. Not because I wanted to but because you have to go see the doctor twice a year or you risk no longer being his patient.
Actually, I have not seen the doctor...just his nurse practitioner. No big deal as she is only treating my hypertension but she did warn me that next time I would have to have blood work done...dang! Just like the Mexican doctor I see in Ciudad Acuna...all my evils will be coming to the forefront after that! Better enjoy the next three months before I can no longer eat or drink anything.
Good bye pizza, hamburgers, fried chicken, menudo, barbacoa, and cholesterol leaden food at Stripes. Good bye drinking beer or a glass of wine as I take in a Spurs game (a tear rolling down my face).
My leg has also been giving me a run for my money. The NP (nurse practitioner) asked me if I wanted to be placed on Gabapentin or Lyrica...WTH...I told her neither!!! For one, Mom has like 180 pills of Gabapentin and she might have taken two or three at the most. Lyrica? Really? My nice Houston lady neighbor that takes or has taken every pill known to man...told me that she was unable to purchase hers because it costs $274.00 a month...that is a WHOLE lot over my budget!
Today I was moving things around in my room trying to streamline all the gadgets and cords and give myself a little more breathing room...when I unplugged a 4 prong 42-year-old phone thingie and now the telephone has no signal...dead as a doorknob!
I know all of you all out there are saying...so what...who still has a landline in their home? We do! Needless to say my mother is not too happy about it, especially since this week we have two doctor's appointments and we will perhaps be spending one night out-of-town. Guess we will be without telephone service for at least a week. So, if you are trying to reach us and the answering machine does not pick up...you know why :(
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
Actually, I have not seen the doctor...just his nurse practitioner. No big deal as she is only treating my hypertension but she did warn me that next time I would have to have blood work done...dang! Just like the Mexican doctor I see in Ciudad Acuna...all my evils will be coming to the forefront after that! Better enjoy the next three months before I can no longer eat or drink anything.
Good bye pizza, hamburgers, fried chicken, menudo, barbacoa, and cholesterol leaden food at Stripes. Good bye drinking beer or a glass of wine as I take in a Spurs game (a tear rolling down my face).
My leg has also been giving me a run for my money. The NP (nurse practitioner) asked me if I wanted to be placed on Gabapentin or Lyrica...WTH...I told her neither!!! For one, Mom has like 180 pills of Gabapentin and she might have taken two or three at the most. Lyrica? Really? My nice Houston lady neighbor that takes or has taken every pill known to man...told me that she was unable to purchase hers because it costs $274.00 a month...that is a WHOLE lot over my budget!
Today I was moving things around in my room trying to streamline all the gadgets and cords and give myself a little more breathing room...when I unplugged a 4 prong 42-year-old phone thingie and now the telephone has no signal...dead as a doorknob!
I know all of you all out there are saying...so what...who still has a landline in their home? We do! Needless to say my mother is not too happy about it, especially since this week we have two doctor's appointments and we will perhaps be spending one night out-of-town. Guess we will be without telephone service for at least a week. So, if you are trying to reach us and the answering machine does not pick up...you know why :(
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
Sunday, December 6, 2015
Reminiscing along historic Sourth Del Rio - Part I
It has been a long time since I have had the chance to go riding around. I decided to drive to historic south Del Rio. This is where we lived when we first moved here. Though the house no longer exists..it was nice to see the other homes with new owners as their original owners passed away a long time ago.
When I first started this blog I often mentioned our "ex-mechanic"...well I used to call him something else but I can no longer do that, as we just learned he passed away two months ago. His shop closed down a couple of years ago, he blamed the federal government as they constructed the new International bridge offices and cut him off from his customers and the old road to Mexico.
This is the border fence across from his shop. It is not even a mile long along this stretch of Frontera Road.
Here you can see the International Bridge in the area reserved for the inspection of 18 wheelers and commercial vehicles.
Even though we are in December the trees are still holding on to their leaves. There was this big grayish truck with blue and red lights on this now cul-de-sac. I, of course did not take a picture of it...though it surprised me as this area is usually patrolled by official Border Patrol and not undercover vehicles...but what do I know?
One of the churches that was most impacted by the street closing was Faith Mission. Their church goers would simply clear customs and walk half a block In my day there was no Salvation Army, Goodwill Industries (there still isn't) or other charity to donate to. If you had something to donate you brought it to Faith Mission and many including myself still do.
When we moved here from Austin, Texas in the late 60's there was only one Border Patrol Headquarters located along Hudson Drive which is now called Qualia Drive in honor of the owners of the oldest winery in the state of Texas...more on a future post.
It now sits empty on some prime real estate. Though there were two vehicles parked here, they were not official Border Patrol vehicles.
In some ways it makes me feel old, as I remember landmarks and people we knew that lived along this stretch that are no longer with us. Like the Arranaga's, the Urby's, the Gonzalez's, the Cantu's and the Lira's.
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
When I first started this blog I often mentioned our "ex-mechanic"...well I used to call him something else but I can no longer do that, as we just learned he passed away two months ago. His shop closed down a couple of years ago, he blamed the federal government as they constructed the new International bridge offices and cut him off from his customers and the old road to Mexico.
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| Behind this fence, it is still US soil for about a third to a half mile. That is how far the RIo Grande River and Mexico are located |
Here you can see the International Bridge in the area reserved for the inspection of 18 wheelers and commercial vehicles.
Even though we are in December the trees are still holding on to their leaves. There was this big grayish truck with blue and red lights on this now cul-de-sac. I, of course did not take a picture of it...though it surprised me as this area is usually patrolled by official Border Patrol and not undercover vehicles...but what do I know?
One of the churches that was most impacted by the street closing was Faith Mission. Their church goers would simply clear customs and walk half a block In my day there was no Salvation Army, Goodwill Industries (there still isn't) or other charity to donate to. If you had something to donate you brought it to Faith Mission and many including myself still do.
When we moved here from Austin, Texas in the late 60's there was only one Border Patrol Headquarters located along Hudson Drive which is now called Qualia Drive in honor of the owners of the oldest winery in the state of Texas...more on a future post.
It now sits empty on some prime real estate. Though there were two vehicles parked here, they were not official Border Patrol vehicles.
In some ways it makes me feel old, as I remember landmarks and people we knew that lived along this stretch that are no longer with us. Like the Arranaga's, the Urby's, the Gonzalez's, the Cantu's and the Lira's.
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
Tuesday, December 1, 2015
An on time appointment
Ordinarily when we have an appointment in San Antonio I tend to go the day before, locate the place and then find a hotel nearby. Unfortunately, that would have meant getting on the road Sunday with all the Thanksgiving Day crowd making their way home.
Been having a problem with the low tire indicator, keeps lighting up, stays on for a few days and then goes back to normal. Could not chance it and went to get it checked out, glad I did because all the tires needed air.
We arrived at the doctor's office at 11:55 a.m. an hour and 20 minutes before our appointment. I was shocked when they called her name at 12:40 p.m. Getting to see the doctor before your appointment time? Incredible!
The local ophthalmologist's office had printed out driving instructions for me which I very much appreciated. Problem is that the print is too small. Decided to put a empty box of Kleenex to good use and made me flash cards.
I don't know how I always manage to get lost when I am coming back to Del Rio. This time I took I-10 West and was heading to Boerne before I stopped and got directions...needed to have been headed to I-10 East...go figure :(
Would have loved to have stopped at Target and Academy but we needed to get back before sunset as I have poor night vision.
Filled up in Uvalde, Texas and using my Stripes pre-paid card saved .03 cents a gallon for the not too shabby price of $1.699 per gallon.
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
We arrived at the doctor's office at 11:55 a.m. an hour and 20 minutes before our appointment. I was shocked when they called her name at 12:40 p.m. Getting to see the doctor before your appointment time? Incredible!
The local ophthalmologist's office had printed out driving instructions for me which I very much appreciated. Problem is that the print is too small. Decided to put a empty box of Kleenex to good use and made me flash cards.
I don't know how I always manage to get lost when I am coming back to Del Rio. This time I took I-10 West and was heading to Boerne before I stopped and got directions...needed to have been headed to I-10 East...go figure :(
Would have loved to have stopped at Target and Academy but we needed to get back before sunset as I have poor night vision.
Filled up in Uvalde, Texas and using my Stripes pre-paid card saved .03 cents a gallon for the not too shabby price of $1.699 per gallon.
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
Wednesday, November 25, 2015
Ophthalmologist/ IHop/ Locksmith
How can I describe today? Went to bed at 1.00 a.m. and woke up at 4:15 a.m. Could not for the life of me go back to sleep. Mom had a 10:00 a.m. appointment with the ophthalmologist so we left early without eating breakfast. Dang....even with the eye doctor we had an over an hour wait. I guess I should be used to this...but somehow, I am not!
We went to IHop afterwards and while Mom had an omelet (which she barely ate)...I decided to have an early Thanksgiving dinner since we don't plan on having one on the actual day. Too much trouble to cook something just for two people.
We went to IHop afterwards and while Mom had an omelet (which she barely ate)...I decided to have an early Thanksgiving dinner since we don't plan on having one on the actual day. Too much trouble to cook something just for two people.
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The mash potatoes were dry and the turkey was horrible but you would have never been able to tell it as I managed to scarf it all down.
Afterwards I stopped by the local locksmith as we have been unable to open the front door in the past month...seems that darn DISH guy besides giving us his flu...also managed to damage the front door mechanism after slamming it.
In a perfect world I would have probably walked out after my first encounter with this outfit...but when they are the only player in town...one does not have much choice.
Was told he would be here as soon as his lunch hour was over, but that was not the case. I would have liked to have had the courtesy of a call...but none ever came. So three and a half hours later and after I had to call them as to the status of their arrival...he finally showed up.
It was not an easy job and it took two hours and a beating of the front door to get it to open. All in alI I was pleased with the final result. I also had a lock installed in the outside bathroom and he fixed the door mechanism to our junk room.
When I stopped at their office, I was told they charged in fifteen minute increments so I was a bit pissed as he spent 17 minutes trying to tell another customer over the phone how to resolve his issues. Luckily, I was only charged a $45.00 service fee, a labor fee plus the bathroom lock and it came in a little over a hundred bucks. For the peace of mind it provided...it was well worth it.
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
Spurs Corner
Though it had nothing to do with the SPURS...I just got through watching the Lakers vs. Golden State Warriors game. Only if you are a true Spurs fan can you relish this score LAL 77, GSW 111...talk about making my night...that is besides the beautiful full moon this evening :)
Sunday, November 22, 2015
Deceived
For those that read my blog it is no secret that I am a die hard San Antonio Spurs fan. After I dumped Time Warner Cable, I resorted to listening to the games on the radio...but that did not cut it. My mechanic is a friend of the owner of the local DISH store so he hooked me up. Both my mechanic and I made it clear that the only reason I was signing up was so I could watch the Spurs games.
At first I got a lot of channels that later went away (after three months) and since we were eliminated in the first round, it didn't really matter. Fast forward to this season...I was not able to see a single home game unless they were on national television. Every time I selected the game a banner came up that I needed to have an NBA League Pass.
Last Thursday I chatted with one of their customer service people (a woman) and again I told her that my main interest was to be able to watch ALL the Spurs games. Oh yes, she said...with a NBA League Pass you will be able to watch them among others. So I happily paid $199.00 for the privilege.
Friday the game was on national TV and we lost. Since it ended early decided to watch my second favorite team....the Dallas Mavericks. It did not let me! Said it was blacked out in my area....grrrrr!!!
Saturday I sat down to watch a Spurs game and got the same message. I was hot under the collar and I called and gave them a piece of my mind. Why would I pay for an NBA League Pass if I could not watch my favorite team and I specifically asked and was told I would be able to see it. The woman I got was very hard to understand, she had a terrible accent and it was not a Hispanic accent.
I am not being sexist but I would have liked to have spoken to a man. I asked her point blank if she was in Texas and she said she was not...obviously...I don't think she had any idea who the Spurs were. Told her I did not want the NBA League Pass as it was worthless. She offered me another package so I could watch the game on Fox Southwest for an additional five bucks for three months.
We will see if they keep their word as my monthly bill already went up an additional $10 since the six months perks have ended.
Sorry about the rant but I am so tired about being deceived by cable and satellite companies. I do not go out to eat, I do not go to the movies, I do not go dancing, I do not go to bars...my only form of entertainment is television and rooting for my Spurs.
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
At first I got a lot of channels that later went away (after three months) and since we were eliminated in the first round, it didn't really matter. Fast forward to this season...I was not able to see a single home game unless they were on national television. Every time I selected the game a banner came up that I needed to have an NBA League Pass.
Last Thursday I chatted with one of their customer service people (a woman) and again I told her that my main interest was to be able to watch ALL the Spurs games. Oh yes, she said...with a NBA League Pass you will be able to watch them among others. So I happily paid $199.00 for the privilege.
Friday the game was on national TV and we lost. Since it ended early decided to watch my second favorite team....the Dallas Mavericks. It did not let me! Said it was blacked out in my area....grrrrr!!!
Saturday I sat down to watch a Spurs game and got the same message. I was hot under the collar and I called and gave them a piece of my mind. Why would I pay for an NBA League Pass if I could not watch my favorite team and I specifically asked and was told I would be able to see it. The woman I got was very hard to understand, she had a terrible accent and it was not a Hispanic accent.
I am not being sexist but I would have liked to have spoken to a man. I asked her point blank if she was in Texas and she said she was not...obviously...I don't think she had any idea who the Spurs were. Told her I did not want the NBA League Pass as it was worthless. She offered me another package so I could watch the game on Fox Southwest for an additional five bucks for three months.
We will see if they keep their word as my monthly bill already went up an additional $10 since the six months perks have ended.
Sorry about the rant but I am so tired about being deceived by cable and satellite companies. I do not go out to eat, I do not go to the movies, I do not go dancing, I do not go to bars...my only form of entertainment is television and rooting for my Spurs.
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
Tuesday, November 17, 2015
Letting off some steam...
When I was young and planning my retirement, I always imagined spending my golden years in a tranquil setting free of stress, problems and obligations. I worked in the oil patch for 25 years in Houston, Texas. Three of those years were for a major oil conglomerate and twenty-two for another.
When I say I worked...I mean I WORKED! I have never known what it is like to work a 40 hour workweek. That is because in those 25 years, my average week ranged from 60 to 80 plus hours. NO...I am not complaining, as I was young, mentally tough and could handle it. The overtime was great and I was able to pay off my mortgage early and retire at a relative young age.
What I never knew was how hard retirement was going to be. I am not really retired, as I work 24 hours a day, seven days a week taking care of my mother The month of October is super busy for me to begin with but with both of us being sick, it was a duzzy. Now add to that three strays and that the female stray just had five puppies!!!!
It was bad enough having three grown dogs jumping at me as soon as I got off the car...now I have five puppies biting at my pant leg as soon as we get in from wherever at whatever time we get home...talk about stress!
I have pictures and the complete story on Walter's blog...click on the header picture if you care to read about it.
Last Thursday we went to see the Uvalde doctor. Appointment time was 2:00 p.m. we got to see the doctor at 5:35 p.m. which is about average. For a while I thought perhaps he had forgotten about us and gone home, as I could not hear any noise...Mom is usually his last patient.
I had all this scenarios in my head as to whom I was going to call to open up the door and let us out. Surprise! When we left at 6:00 p.m. he still had a waiting room full of patients. I have poor night vision and it took me close to two hours to drive back to Del Rio when it is only 70 miles away. I think next time, we will be spending the night in Uvalde!
If things could not get anymore stressful, last week I saw something dart in front of me in the kitchen. Instinctively I knew what it was, even though I was really hoping it was a roach No such luck,,,it was a baby mouse. I grabbed my mixture of clorox and water (remember I was trying to kill the mold in my tent) a few months ago...please don't ask about my tent :(
We had another doctor's appointment today, then mother wanted to go to Walmart before the holiday crowds make it impossible. I was DEAD after we got home but managed to heat up some leftovers for dinner and went to try to catch the Spurs game.
DISH is a POS...I did not contract with them until the end of the Spurs season last year, when they were in the playoffs. Seems that if I want to catch a game, I am going to have to purchase an NBA League Pass...this is not what I had in mind.....grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!!!!
Sad to have to admit that TWC was a better provider than DISH...but I am stuck in a two year commitment ,,,Darn, how I HATE commitments!!!
DISH gives you a free one month preview of some of their elite channels and this month I get to preview the NBA channel. Wow, I watched announcer Rick Fox last night...and though I deeply dislike the Lakers...this ex-player is like fine wine...hummm...delicious and better with age :D
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
When I say I worked...I mean I WORKED! I have never known what it is like to work a 40 hour workweek. That is because in those 25 years, my average week ranged from 60 to 80 plus hours. NO...I am not complaining, as I was young, mentally tough and could handle it. The overtime was great and I was able to pay off my mortgage early and retire at a relative young age.
What I never knew was how hard retirement was going to be. I am not really retired, as I work 24 hours a day, seven days a week taking care of my mother The month of October is super busy for me to begin with but with both of us being sick, it was a duzzy. Now add to that three strays and that the female stray just had five puppies!!!!
It was bad enough having three grown dogs jumping at me as soon as I got off the car...now I have five puppies biting at my pant leg as soon as we get in from wherever at whatever time we get home...talk about stress!
I have pictures and the complete story on Walter's blog...click on the header picture if you care to read about it.
Last Thursday we went to see the Uvalde doctor. Appointment time was 2:00 p.m. we got to see the doctor at 5:35 p.m. which is about average. For a while I thought perhaps he had forgotten about us and gone home, as I could not hear any noise...Mom is usually his last patient.
I had all this scenarios in my head as to whom I was going to call to open up the door and let us out. Surprise! When we left at 6:00 p.m. he still had a waiting room full of patients. I have poor night vision and it took me close to two hours to drive back to Del Rio when it is only 70 miles away. I think next time, we will be spending the night in Uvalde!
If things could not get anymore stressful, last week I saw something dart in front of me in the kitchen. Instinctively I knew what it was, even though I was really hoping it was a roach No such luck,,,it was a baby mouse. I grabbed my mixture of clorox and water (remember I was trying to kill the mold in my tent) a few months ago...please don't ask about my tent :(
We had another doctor's appointment today, then mother wanted to go to Walmart before the holiday crowds make it impossible. I was DEAD after we got home but managed to heat up some leftovers for dinner and went to try to catch the Spurs game.
DISH is a POS...I did not contract with them until the end of the Spurs season last year, when they were in the playoffs. Seems that if I want to catch a game, I am going to have to purchase an NBA League Pass...this is not what I had in mind.....grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!!!!
Sad to have to admit that TWC was a better provider than DISH...but I am stuck in a two year commitment ,,,Darn, how I HATE commitments!!!
DISH gives you a free one month preview of some of their elite channels and this month I get to preview the NBA channel. Wow, I watched announcer Rick Fox last night...and though I deeply dislike the Lakers...this ex-player is like fine wine...hummm...delicious and better with age :D
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
Tuesday, November 10, 2015
Old friends in new settings
Our hospital is so worthless, locals drive to other cities especially if they need to go to the ER. Mother's Oncologist (San Antonio doctor who we see in Uvalde, Tx) had enough of them and now we go to another lab in town for blood draws.
The lady that drew Mom's blood today recognized her from 20 years ago, when she worked for another doctor. How funny that in spite of my CRS...I remember her as well.
Afterwards, we went to try to find the house of a friend of Mom's. No luck on that front but we did run into a very nice and modern nursing home that we did not know existed. Across the street from it, we were surprised to see a nursing home that we had not been to in ages.
I was still living in Houston when mother broke her hip and she stayed in this facility to undergo therapy. There is a friend of ours that resides here and whom we had not had the opportunity to visit in a while.
There is no getting around it...no matter how pretty on the outside or inside...nursing homes are HORRIBLE!
Since mother and I still have a cold, I placed a mask on us both before entering the facility. Lord and behold I ran into a girl that was our neighbor when we first moved to Del Rio. I knew who she was right away.
I asked her if she was La Cuata (the twin) she looked surprised and asked who we were behind the mask. Mom and I removed them and she was able to recognize us. It brought back many nice memories from my youth. She gave me her phone number and I hope to call her soon and catch up on the all the years since we last saw one another.
I guess that is the beauty and also the pitfall of living in a small town...crappy medical facilities but small enough to run into wonderful long time friends.
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
The lady that drew Mom's blood today recognized her from 20 years ago, when she worked for another doctor. How funny that in spite of my CRS...I remember her as well.
Afterwards, we went to try to find the house of a friend of Mom's. No luck on that front but we did run into a very nice and modern nursing home that we did not know existed. Across the street from it, we were surprised to see a nursing home that we had not been to in ages.
I was still living in Houston when mother broke her hip and she stayed in this facility to undergo therapy. There is a friend of ours that resides here and whom we had not had the opportunity to visit in a while.
There is no getting around it...no matter how pretty on the outside or inside...nursing homes are HORRIBLE!
Since mother and I still have a cold, I placed a mask on us both before entering the facility. Lord and behold I ran into a girl that was our neighbor when we first moved to Del Rio. I knew who she was right away.
I asked her if she was La Cuata (the twin) she looked surprised and asked who we were behind the mask. Mom and I removed them and she was able to recognize us. It brought back many nice memories from my youth. She gave me her phone number and I hope to call her soon and catch up on the all the years since we last saw one another.
I guess that is the beauty and also the pitfall of living in a small town...crappy medical facilities but small enough to run into wonderful long time friends.
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
Saturday, November 7, 2015
Dia de los Muertos - November 2, 2015
It has been three long years since I have had an opportunity to be a part of the Dia de los Muertos celebration and was definitively looking forward to it.
While the ceremonies begin after sundown, volunteers are there early cleaning the graves, decorating, putting offerings in the altars,setting up the tables for the pot luck dinner, etc. etc.
Many locals and people that are in town for the two chili cook-offs come to the event. Many dress up for it.
Some I recall from past Day of the Dead celebrations.
Others I have never seen before.
I enjoy seeing everyone having a good time. After all the candles on the graves are lit, the bonfire is ignited.
Ran into Frann at the cemetery or rather she recognized me. Warned her I was ill and did not want to pass it on to her. She stated she did not catch things easily. Frann knows practically all the town and introduced me to a lot of folks.
For the first time I stayed to eat the pot luck dinner that the community prepares. It is a BYOB (bring your own bottle or beer) event :D
Local musicians come and entertain as people sit around the bonfire and take in the celebration. Frann introduced me to Bill Ivy and his wife, he is the unofficial mayor of Terlingua and owner of the Old Ghost town, including the cemetery.
We stayed till the very end and then went to the porch where I got to hear Moe (a local musician) that I first heard on YouTube.
I met a young lady from Houston who had gone online and learned of the festivities. Her little dog and her made the long trip to the desert for the very first time. She too dressed up for the event. No pictures were taken as I left my camera in the car.
I had such a wonderful time. If you are ever in the area on Nov 2nd you might want to check it out.for yourself.
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
Some I recall from past Day of the Dead celebrations.
Others I have never seen before.
I enjoy seeing everyone having a good time. After all the candles on the graves are lit, the bonfire is ignited.
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| People of all ages and walks of life attend. |
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| Even this little tyke enjoyed it! |
We stayed till the very end and then went to the porch where I got to hear Moe (a local musician) that I first heard on YouTube.
I met a young lady from Houston who had gone online and learned of the festivities. Her little dog and her made the long trip to the desert for the very first time. She too dressed up for the event. No pictures were taken as I left my camera in the car.
I had such a wonderful time. If you are ever in the area on Nov 2nd you might want to check it out.for yourself.
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
Wednesday, November 4, 2015
One day trip to Terlingua
I pondered all night on Sunday and decided I wanted to go to Terlingua, both to save my prized camping space at the Chili cook-off as well as to attend the Dia de los Muertos 2015 celebration. Unfortunately, I got a late start but made it in time to be part of the Day of the Dead experience.
While I have attended several of them, the people that came with me got bored, tired or wanted to go back to the campground. It was wonderful to go by myself and to leave when I was good and ready to do so.
I will do a separate post for the Dia de los Muertos...stay tuned.
Remember I was not feeling motivated or excited about going to Terlingua? Well, that changed as soon as I went over Lake Amistad bridge. Right then and there I felt this overwhelming sensation...I was no longer in Del Rio!
I had a smile on my face until my face hurt.
The new Border Patrol station in Comstock, Texas was officially inaugurated this past October after almost two years of construction. The nice young lady officer asked how far I was going. Told her I was headed to Terlingua...I was still smiling like a fool...she told me that a lot of people had been by going out that way and she wished me well.
I was so giddy I had to really watch my speed as I caught myself going close to 90 mph on several occasions. Last thing I needed was to get a ticket and ruin the great insurance rates I currently pay.
I wll give you an advance...I stayed till the very end and then headed to the porch to listen to some local musicians jam.
I finally arrived at my favorite camping spot a little after midnight. While my spot was still available, an RV was next to it and that is where my Houston friends were going to camp. No big deal, they can have my spot as I plan on car camping this year as well.
Only one person was up at one of the adjoing camps. I stayed there for a while until my cough and the smoke got to me and I went to bed. Unfortunately, I was up by 5:00 a.m. even though I tried to go back to sleep.
As soon as the sun came up, I set up my tarp and secured it with rocks and water jugs. I left before any of my friends were up.
This was my one day trip to my favorite desert. Hopefully I can return shortly.
I apologize as I am having difficulty uploading pictures and some of them are out of sequence. :(
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
Gasoline Prices this trip
Del Rio, Texas
Sanderson, Texas
Alpine, Texas
While I have attended several of them, the people that came with me got bored, tired or wanted to go back to the campground. It was wonderful to go by myself and to leave when I was good and ready to do so.
I will do a separate post for the Dia de los Muertos...stay tuned.
Remember I was not feeling motivated or excited about going to Terlingua? Well, that changed as soon as I went over Lake Amistad bridge. Right then and there I felt this overwhelming sensation...I was no longer in Del Rio!
I had a smile on my face until my face hurt.
The new Border Patrol station in Comstock, Texas was officially inaugurated this past October after almost two years of construction. The nice young lady officer asked how far I was going. Told her I was headed to Terlingua...I was still smiling like a fool...she told me that a lot of people had been by going out that way and she wished me well.
I was so giddy I had to really watch my speed as I caught myself going close to 90 mph on several occasions. Last thing I needed was to get a ticket and ruin the great insurance rates I currently pay.
I wll give you an advance...I stayed till the very end and then headed to the porch to listen to some local musicians jam.
I finally arrived at my favorite camping spot a little after midnight. While my spot was still available, an RV was next to it and that is where my Houston friends were going to camp. No big deal, they can have my spot as I plan on car camping this year as well.
Only one person was up at one of the adjoing camps. I stayed there for a while until my cough and the smoke got to me and I went to bed. Unfortunately, I was up by 5:00 a.m. even though I tried to go back to sleep.
As soon as the sun came up, I set up my tarp and secured it with rocks and water jugs. I left before any of my friends were up.
This was my one day trip to my favorite desert. Hopefully I can return shortly.
I apologize as I am having difficulty uploading pictures and some of them are out of sequence. :(
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
Gasoline Prices this trip
Del Rio, Texas
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| $1.88 at the Del Rio Walmart |
Sanderson, Texas
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| $2.19 at the Stripes in Sanderson |
Alpine, Texas
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| $2.17 at the Stripes in Alpine |
Sunday, November 1, 2015
Feeling weird
When daylight savings goes into effect I am usually in Terlingua and it is the last day of the cook-off. Not this year as the cook-off takes place on the first full weekend in November and that wont be until this weekend.
I believe this is also the first time in a while that I spend Halloween in Del Rio. It makes no difference, we live too far away and no kids have come trick or treating in decades.
For some reason I am not as giddy as I usually am come cook-off time...have no idea why. There is no anticipation no excitement...no nothing...hopefully it is only temporary.
Now that I have finally been able to access my blog e-mail account, I came across a bit of sad though anticipated bad news. Irwin, late Betty's husband passed away. I knew he would not last long without her. They were such a perfect couple and even at their age, the love and respect they felt for each other was something beautiful to behold. May you rest in peace Irwin next to your beloved Betty. They were an institution at the cook-off and will be dearly missed!
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
I believe this is also the first time in a while that I spend Halloween in Del Rio. It makes no difference, we live too far away and no kids have come trick or treating in decades.
For some reason I am not as giddy as I usually am come cook-off time...have no idea why. There is no anticipation no excitement...no nothing...hopefully it is only temporary.
Now that I have finally been able to access my blog e-mail account, I came across a bit of sad though anticipated bad news. Irwin, late Betty's husband passed away. I knew he would not last long without her. They were such a perfect couple and even at their age, the love and respect they felt for each other was something beautiful to behold. May you rest in peace Irwin next to your beloved Betty. They were an institution at the cook-off and will be dearly missed!
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
Saturday, October 31, 2015
October 2015 trip to Ciudad Acuna, Mexico
I have been trying to go to Mexico for a while now but something always came up to prevent me from doing so.
Last Tuesday after being on my death bed thanks to that DISH guy I decided to go to the doctor. One good thing about doctors in Mexico is that they do not require appointments (except for my dentist) and you are seen on a first come first serve basis.
An hour and a half into the wait his nurse announces that the doctor has been called on an emergency so he would not be seeing patients until the following day...too bad I already had plans and it involved a doctor's appointment for Mom so that was that.
I really wanted to go to the beauty shop but there was no way I was going to spread my germs around even though I was wearing a face mask.
This month they opened up a new Aurrera (owned by Walmart) in Ciudad Acuna. This branch is located in the city and not out in the suburbs. I have featured Aurrera before on past posts, it is a big store inside Plaza Bella Mall. I do not think this store is as large as the first one but then again I could be wrong as I was not able to find it....just as well as I was feeling lousy and decided to come on home.
The peso to dollar exchange is at an all time high, which is good for us Americans but not so hot for Mexicans buying dollars. The lines were long and lucky me...I got a 'woman officer".. I saw her and I wanted to vomit! I went to school with this woman and she was as ornery then as she is now.
This is not my first encounter with her and I am beginning to think it's personal. My ex-worthless mechanic had a son that joined Border Patrol and wanted to be stationed in the Del Rio sector but was told that was not possible because it was his hometown.
My current mechanic has a daughter that is an ICE agent and like this woman works at the International Bridge but in Laredo, Texas for the same reason as above. Why is this woman, who I know for a fact is a Del Rio native stationed in her hometown? OK, end of rant!!
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
Last Tuesday after being on my death bed thanks to that DISH guy I decided to go to the doctor. One good thing about doctors in Mexico is that they do not require appointments (except for my dentist) and you are seen on a first come first serve basis.
An hour and a half into the wait his nurse announces that the doctor has been called on an emergency so he would not be seeing patients until the following day...too bad I already had plans and it involved a doctor's appointment for Mom so that was that.
I really wanted to go to the beauty shop but there was no way I was going to spread my germs around even though I was wearing a face mask.
This month they opened up a new Aurrera (owned by Walmart) in Ciudad Acuna. This branch is located in the city and not out in the suburbs. I have featured Aurrera before on past posts, it is a big store inside Plaza Bella Mall. I do not think this store is as large as the first one but then again I could be wrong as I was not able to find it....just as well as I was feeling lousy and decided to come on home.
The peso to dollar exchange is at an all time high, which is good for us Americans but not so hot for Mexicans buying dollars. The lines were long and lucky me...I got a 'woman officer".. I saw her and I wanted to vomit! I went to school with this woman and she was as ornery then as she is now.
This is not my first encounter with her and I am beginning to think it's personal. My ex-worthless mechanic had a son that joined Border Patrol and wanted to be stationed in the Del Rio sector but was told that was not possible because it was his hometown.
My current mechanic has a daughter that is an ICE agent and like this woman works at the International Bridge but in Laredo, Texas for the same reason as above. Why is this woman, who I know for a fact is a Del Rio native stationed in her hometown? OK, end of rant!!
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
Sunday, October 25, 2015
I apologize
I apologize to all my readers who have taken the time to send me e-mails. It was not until tonight that I was finally able to access the e-mail account associated with this blog. I answered the first one and zap! I have no idea where it went :(
I am so tired of all these computer and internet problems. October is probably the most expensive month of the year for me. Hopefully come Black Friday and the Holidays, I can find me a good bargain on a replacement.
Hope everyone is doing OK after all the heavy rains we have had in the state. Was on the telephone to two of my Houston neighbors this afternoon and the area where I live was not hard hit...finally some good news!
I am battling a cold that I got from the stupid DISH guy. He was probably the most unprofessional technician I ever encountered. He was mad because his supervisor would not let him off work to go to the doctor, so he hacked all over us, even mother is sick. I would vote this individual the most likely to go postal. He bad mouthed his company, his supervisors, and fellow installers. My question is why is he still working for DISH, if he hates it so much?
I have so many things to do this week, I do not know if I can fit it all in. Until next time, may you all have Terlingua Dreams.
I am so tired of all these computer and internet problems. October is probably the most expensive month of the year for me. Hopefully come Black Friday and the Holidays, I can find me a good bargain on a replacement.
Hope everyone is doing OK after all the heavy rains we have had in the state. Was on the telephone to two of my Houston neighbors this afternoon and the area where I live was not hard hit...finally some good news!
I am battling a cold that I got from the stupid DISH guy. He was probably the most unprofessional technician I ever encountered. He was mad because his supervisor would not let him off work to go to the doctor, so he hacked all over us, even mother is sick. I would vote this individual the most likely to go postal. He bad mouthed his company, his supervisors, and fellow installers. My question is why is he still working for DISH, if he hates it so much?
I have so many things to do this week, I do not know if I can fit it all in. Until next time, may you all have Terlingua Dreams.
Saturday, October 10, 2015
Hi Guys!
Hi guys, how are you all doing? Hope all is well with each and everyone of my readers and friends.
Sorry to say that I have yet to buy a new computer and have traded one vice for another. Went back to being an HGTV addict...a channel I had previously banned myself from watching. Darn they have excellent new shows, one of my favorites...Tiny House Living (or something to that affect)...lol, my CRS has not improved :D
I am still waiting for them to finish the Val Verde County Library expansion which has taken way too long!!! I think Del Rio is big enough to support two libraries. The CVS went up in no time and our library is the size of that pharmacy.
We finally got some rain Thursday night and it came down in buckets. The worst part was that we were driving back from Uvalde in the middle of it all.
Good night, May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
Sorry to say that I have yet to buy a new computer and have traded one vice for another. Went back to being an HGTV addict...a channel I had previously banned myself from watching. Darn they have excellent new shows, one of my favorites...Tiny House Living (or something to that affect)...lol, my CRS has not improved :D
I am still waiting for them to finish the Val Verde County Library expansion which has taken way too long!!! I think Del Rio is big enough to support two libraries. The CVS went up in no time and our library is the size of that pharmacy.
We finally got some rain Thursday night and it came down in buckets. The worst part was that we were driving back from Uvalde in the middle of it all.
Good night, May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
Thursday, July 2, 2015
My computer is on its last legs
It is a struggle just to try to get online these days. Have ran malware, done scans but this computer is pretty much on its last legs.
It tells me that I need to replace the battery even though I now just run it using the power cord. I went to Walmart to check out the inventory and found a few that were reasonable. I guess I could buy one online, but I like to see, feel and try out a product in particular something that I will be using on a daily basis.
Then comes the issue of Windows 8...I can barely operate Windows 7...:-(
Can you believe it is July already? Time has sure flown by this year. Wanted to do one last post on June 30th but neither Chrome or IE would open. If that was not enough my internet service provider kept on giving me the Web Acceleration message it frequently does. Oh well...me and my first world problems.
I can't wish you Terlingua dreams, as it is almost noon...so have a great day.
Then comes the issue of Windows 8...I can barely operate Windows 7...:-(
Can you believe it is July already? Time has sure flown by this year. Wanted to do one last post on June 30th but neither Chrome or IE would open. If that was not enough my internet service provider kept on giving me the Web Acceleration message it frequently does. Oh well...me and my first world problems.
I can't wish you Terlingua dreams, as it is almost noon...so have a great day.
Tuesday, June 30, 2015
RIP Betty
I just recently found out that Betty, a long time Terlingua friend and a staple at the annual CASI Chili Cook-off, passed away. While I do not know the exact date, it was on or about the 6th of June.
Betty was a fun loving person who knew how to party and always had a great time! If you ever went to a cook-off you surely saw her or if you were lucky enough, got to meet her. She was originally from New Jersey and both she and her beloved husband Irwin moved to Terlingua in the early 70's.
She would tell me and my camp mates stories about the early days of their arrival, their struggles but most importantly...the love for one another and their love for the Chihuahuan desert.
Besides our love for Terlingua, Betty and I had another bond...that being, that we were both avid Betty Boop fans. She would joke that she was more of a Betty Boobs! That is because of her annual participation in the Boob contest which she won more than any other individual in CASI Chili Cook-off history. The last time she won it, was two years ago against strong competition and in her 80's!
Last year neither she nor Irwin were feeling well. They did not spend the night at the cook-off as they usually do. She made the effort to come out because they were going to give her a special recognition down at Krazy Flats.
I am so glad they stopped by my campsite and that I got to give her one last hug.
My condolences to Irwin, her family and her legion of friends. May you rest in peace dear Betty.
Betty was a fun loving person who knew how to party and always had a great time! If you ever went to a cook-off you surely saw her or if you were lucky enough, got to meet her. She was originally from New Jersey and both she and her beloved husband Irwin moved to Terlingua in the early 70's.
She would tell me and my camp mates stories about the early days of their arrival, their struggles but most importantly...the love for one another and their love for the Chihuahuan desert.
Besides our love for Terlingua, Betty and I had another bond...that being, that we were both avid Betty Boop fans. She would joke that she was more of a Betty Boobs! That is because of her annual participation in the Boob contest which she won more than any other individual in CASI Chili Cook-off history. The last time she won it, was two years ago against strong competition and in her 80's!
Last year neither she nor Irwin were feeling well. They did not spend the night at the cook-off as they usually do. She made the effort to come out because they were going to give her a special recognition down at Krazy Flats.
I am so glad they stopped by my campsite and that I got to give her one last hug.
My condolences to Irwin, her family and her legion of friends. May you rest in peace dear Betty.
Sunday, June 28, 2015
Hulla Hoe / Weed eating
As I mentioned on a prior post...I am having problems going back to sleep after administering Mom's early morning medications. This past Friday, I got tired of laying in bed and decided to give the hulla hoe a workout before it got to a high of 95 degrees.
It did not take long to make my hands hurt even while wearing gloves. Then a light bulb went off and I decided to use my leftover water noodle (I think that is what is called) and it worked great!
I was only planning on addressing the backyard but decided the area on the street side of the fence needed it more. Turned out to be too much work using the hulla hoe...so I pulled out the electric weed eater.
The last time I went to my house in Houston...I took one of my two-100 ft extension cords so I could mow the yard using my electric lawn mower. Little did I know it would be over two years and counting before I could go back. Therefore, I unknowingly left my extension cord there.
I really needed the extra cord to finish the job. Did the best I could under the circumstances...that being the heat and humidity...if only I had done this two months ago, it might have gone a lot smoother. Folks, take it from me...do not procrastinate :-(
I was planning on finishing the job on Saturday morning but was not planning on it raining in the early morning hours...I left the weed eater along with the extension cord outside!
Even half way done, I felt a great sense of accomplishment. We will see what next week brings?
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
It did not take long to make my hands hurt even while wearing gloves. Then a light bulb went off and I decided to use my leftover water noodle (I think that is what is called) and it worked great!
I was only planning on addressing the backyard but decided the area on the street side of the fence needed it more. Turned out to be too much work using the hulla hoe...so I pulled out the electric weed eater.
The last time I went to my house in Houston...I took one of my two-100 ft extension cords so I could mow the yard using my electric lawn mower. Little did I know it would be over two years and counting before I could go back. Therefore, I unknowingly left my extension cord there.
I really needed the extra cord to finish the job. Did the best I could under the circumstances...that being the heat and humidity...if only I had done this two months ago, it might have gone a lot smoother. Folks, take it from me...do not procrastinate :-(
I was planning on finishing the job on Saturday morning but was not planning on it raining in the early morning hours...I left the weed eater along with the extension cord outside!
Even half way done, I felt a great sense of accomplishment. We will see what next week brings?
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
Tuesday, June 23, 2015
A day without electricity
Lately, I have had a hard time going back to sleep after giving mother her early morning medication. Rather than laying in bed, I have been getting up and doing other things. Yesterday I decided to make an early trip to the laundromat. Had never used a maxi load washer (equivalent to four loads), used two...now towels and linens are once again done for the month.
Since I was already out and about drove into town to check the P.O. Box, gassed up the car...$2.51 a gallon for regular unleaded and picked up three lunch plates at Stripes (one was going to be my dinner).
I felt a sense of accomplishment that my chores were done by 11:30 a.m. It would have been a great day had the electricity not gone out at 2:00 p.m. We are no strangers to losing power in the area where mother lives.
The house got hot pretty fast as my mother is always cold and the A/C is usually set at 80. This is one of the main reasons why our electric bill is higher in the winter rather than the summer.
We sat outside for hours where fortunately there was a nice breeze. Then a darn wasp bit me in the face! It was my fault because again due to my procrastination, I had not exterminated the nest. Went on a killing rampage and did away with a bunch of them.
Mother wanted to eat in the kitchen but I nixed that. Way too hot and even hotter if I heated something on the stove. Decided we needed to go for a ride in an air conditioned car and pick up something to eat in town.
Was very surprised to find police directing traffic and businesses shut down on Veteran's Memorial the main artery in Del Rio. Even Stripes and HEB were closed. Saw some people at Domino's where I stopped and asked what happened? Was told the main transformer had exploded and the only fast food places still opened were McDonalds and Subway as you come into Del Rio from San Antonio.
Mother does not like sandwiches and I rather starve than eat at McDonald's but out of curiosity drove by there. My God! I have never seen McDonalds so jammed packed....for the record, I don't wait in lines either.
We have two HEB's...drove by the old one that is located in historic downtown but the whole street was blocked off as the light company was working on the lines. So we came home to eat cereal and milk.
Opened all the windows and put mother to bed. I went outside and sat with the dogs. Surprisingly it was not very dark though the moon was only half full. I could hear the neighbor's voices, so a lot of people were sitting outside as well. Went inside at midnight and woke up at 2:43 a.m. when I felt the air conditioning hit my face.
It is amazing how we come to rely on electricity. If it had only been me, there would have been no problem...I would have slept outside in my zero gravity recliner. While Terlingua is a huge party in the desert, sometimes described as Spring Break for adults, it has also taught me a lot about survival.
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
Since I was already out and about drove into town to check the P.O. Box, gassed up the car...$2.51 a gallon for regular unleaded and picked up three lunch plates at Stripes (one was going to be my dinner).
I felt a sense of accomplishment that my chores were done by 11:30 a.m. It would have been a great day had the electricity not gone out at 2:00 p.m. We are no strangers to losing power in the area where mother lives.
The house got hot pretty fast as my mother is always cold and the A/C is usually set at 80. This is one of the main reasons why our electric bill is higher in the winter rather than the summer.
We sat outside for hours where fortunately there was a nice breeze. Then a darn wasp bit me in the face! It was my fault because again due to my procrastination, I had not exterminated the nest. Went on a killing rampage and did away with a bunch of them.
Mother wanted to eat in the kitchen but I nixed that. Way too hot and even hotter if I heated something on the stove. Decided we needed to go for a ride in an air conditioned car and pick up something to eat in town.
Was very surprised to find police directing traffic and businesses shut down on Veteran's Memorial the main artery in Del Rio. Even Stripes and HEB were closed. Saw some people at Domino's where I stopped and asked what happened? Was told the main transformer had exploded and the only fast food places still opened were McDonalds and Subway as you come into Del Rio from San Antonio.
Mother does not like sandwiches and I rather starve than eat at McDonald's but out of curiosity drove by there. My God! I have never seen McDonalds so jammed packed....for the record, I don't wait in lines either.
We have two HEB's...drove by the old one that is located in historic downtown but the whole street was blocked off as the light company was working on the lines. So we came home to eat cereal and milk.
Opened all the windows and put mother to bed. I went outside and sat with the dogs. Surprisingly it was not very dark though the moon was only half full. I could hear the neighbor's voices, so a lot of people were sitting outside as well. Went inside at midnight and woke up at 2:43 a.m. when I felt the air conditioning hit my face.
It is amazing how we come to rely on electricity. If it had only been me, there would have been no problem...I would have slept outside in my zero gravity recliner. While Terlingua is a huge party in the desert, sometimes described as Spring Break for adults, it has also taught me a lot about survival.
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
Friday, June 19, 2015
Me and my procrastination :(
In the blink of an eye this month is almost over and done with. Where has the time gone? It sure seems to fly by faster now that I am older.
I have so many things I need to tackle but that I keep on putting off. One thing I finally accomplished was taking down my Kodiak canvas tent that I put up last October...well, kind of, sort of...
I have had it up for eight months...not something I am proud of. I have gotten rid of a lot of the mildew but I did not count on the main ridge pole not coming apart. Guess the dust and wind had its way. I rubbed vaseline all over it but the problem is in the inside.
All I could do was drag it to the carport/garage and place a tarp over it until I figure something else out. My procrastination ruined a $500.00 tent.
Remember I thought the strong winds had turned off the gas water heater? Well, it turns out that might not have been the case...seems we almost ran out of propane because...you guessed it...I forgot to check the gauges!
If that was not enough procrastination...I have never gotten around to weed eating the yard and even with Walter's help (the neighbor's horse) the weeds are out of control.
As many of my old readers know...I like to change my header picture on a regular basis. However, Blogger changed the way to upload pictures and I am not given the option to remove the prior photo. If you go to Walter's blog (you can click on my header picture to get there) you will see that I now have two header pictures and one is way too big. I know...I should be banned from using a computer and even more so from having a blog...(me with a tear running down my face)...:(
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
I have so many things I need to tackle but that I keep on putting off. One thing I finally accomplished was taking down my Kodiak canvas tent that I put up last October...well, kind of, sort of...
I have had it up for eight months...not something I am proud of. I have gotten rid of a lot of the mildew but I did not count on the main ridge pole not coming apart. Guess the dust and wind had its way. I rubbed vaseline all over it but the problem is in the inside.
All I could do was drag it to the carport/garage and place a tarp over it until I figure something else out. My procrastination ruined a $500.00 tent.
Remember I thought the strong winds had turned off the gas water heater? Well, it turns out that might not have been the case...seems we almost ran out of propane because...you guessed it...I forgot to check the gauges!
If that was not enough procrastination...I have never gotten around to weed eating the yard and even with Walter's help (the neighbor's horse) the weeds are out of control.
As many of my old readers know...I like to change my header picture on a regular basis. However, Blogger changed the way to upload pictures and I am not given the option to remove the prior photo. If you go to Walter's blog (you can click on my header picture to get there) you will see that I now have two header pictures and one is way too big. I know...I should be banned from using a computer and even more so from having a blog...(me with a tear running down my face)...:(
Good night. May you all have Terlingua Dreams.
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