Lough Ranch

My Valentine

2012-02-14T16:54:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day to my Valentine, the butter on my bread, the ranch on my salad, the ketchup on my hamburger, the frosting on my cupcake, and the cinnamon in my roll.

After 19 years, he is still the one that makes me laugh, still the one that makes me strong, still the one that makes me shout, still the one I love to touch... (sing it) Still the one, Still the one, We're still having fun, and he's still the one...

There's so many ways your sweet loves made this house into a home....
When a whole lot of Decembers are showing in your face,
Your auburn hair has faded and silver takes its place,
You'll just as lovely, and I'll still be around... (you know the rest)

Happy Valentine's Day BL!

The Ranch

2012-02-13T19:49:00.000-08:00

My next love is the Ranch. I adore living on this farm.

One... we bought it from my mom and dad. Growing up it was referred to as "Pete's." Dad bought it from a man named Pete Taylor. Our house sits where there once was a old corn crib. Dad raised pigs here and calved some cows. When I was about 12, Mom and Dad were loading pigs, and Dad tapped one with a board. The board broke and hit Mom in the nose. With blood running down her nose, she firmly declared that she was FINE. She was fine, and does not have any surface scars to show. But it sure did leave a permanent impression in our memories.

Two... I love livestock; goats, chickens, cows, horses, and our dog, Dally. I presently have 40 eggs in the incubator and anxiously wait to hear the peeps of hatching chicks. We just bought 6 baby goats, they are the cutest little things ever. In about a month, we will start calving... can't wait!

Three... I truly believe some of my most wonderful memories, life learning lessons, and hardest work happened because I grew up on a farm not far from this Ranch. Where else in the world does a peeping chick or a calf's first breath make all the difference in the world?

Simple Church

2012-02-12T19:18:00.000-08:00

I love our little, simple, country church. Of all the places to love, it is simply one of my favorites. I remember going as a little girls, I still see my first Sunday teacher most Sundays. I walked down it's red aisle with my dad to marry my husband. At the Christmas program, my grandma was one of three grandparents that had four generations present. Our family has out-grown the back pew at the Easter Sunrise Service. Our girls were baptized there. Smiles of friends and neighbors greet us each week. It's peacefulness is simply amazing.

Vintage Campers

2012-02-11T13:03:00.000-08:00

I absolutely LOVE vintage campers. The challenge, the what in the world are you thinking, is that yours, the knee slapping old ladies... it makes me smile. Our first camper, the IH, still holds a special place in my heart. I will never forget the look on BL's face when we pulled home the "project." Our newest 1972 model is the cat's meow. Some may think it looks like a Taco Wagon, but to me it's heaven. Restoring vintage campers is my dream job, but not on a high demand. I have a new project this spring... I can't wait. The neighbors are joining the Ditch Diva Club. Nothing makes me more proud then to see a campground with a bunch of Ditch Divas there. We need a banner. I think there might be a market for Ditch Diva t-shirts?

Top 5

2012-02-10T14:58:00.000-08:00

I love my daily commute. Here is a list of the Top 5 funnies from my daily commute over the past 12 years...

1. the slip and slide in Pulaski at the construction site
2. passing a tractor on the side of the road and realizing it was Dad
3. watching a car completely destroy the road sign (no one was hurt)
4. seeing a lady in the ditch, we stopped to assist, I asked her if she was alright, she replied that she wasn't to good, I asked how I could help... she replied that she wasn't hurt, just not to good (why was she driving?)
5. my partner in crime reading a book, while I drive or vise versa.

Everyday is an adventure!

Halfpint

2012-02-07T18:12:00.000-08:00

My next love post is about my baby. Weighing in to the world at 9lbs, 9oz, who would have know she would be a lean, mean second grader. Halfpint is an energetic, creative, and full of pee and vinegar. I love that she keeps us on our toes, is up for any new challenge, and has an imagination as big as the moon. Her twinkling eyes and bright smile says it all. She speaks her mind... good or bad, nothing is left in the dark. Halfpint has the softest cheeks one could ever kiss. She gives the most amazing foot rubs every. She even designed and created her own Massage Salon in the basement. I think she even hired a secretary. Halfpint is one of a kind!

Penelope

2012-02-06T17:00:00.000-08:00

I will start my month of "loving" posts with my first born... Penelope. I just started calling her that because most Penelopes are sweet little girls with blue eyes and golden hair, and they are nice to all creatures, large and small. Plus, I haven't ever had a Penelope in school, so no one has spoiled that name. When I was a little girl, my aunt would tell me stories of Penelope and her puppy. I guess the name is embedded in my memory. In these stories, Penelope would find trouble but always make the right choice. So our Penelope, I adore her, she's sweet, stubborn, shy, pleasing, helpful, and very laid back. I love when she helps unload the dishwasher, when I sing to her every night she looks at me like I am the best thing in the world, and when she is in trouble, she crumbles. When she was 5 months old, she would sit on the floor content with the world... she is still content with watching the world around her. I love that she thinks before she talks, and she processes everything with deep thought. At every parent/teacher conference, she makes us proud. Penelope is the apple from my tree.

Project #5

2012-01-31T19:16:00.000-08:00

My fifth and final project for awhile is a laptop case. Janome and I created this a few weeks ago. This is my last project to share and it is the end of Janurary. For the month of Feburary, Valentine's Day month, I will share things I love.

For the record, something killed a chicken today... I don't love things that kill chickens!

Project #4

2012-01-28T14:07:00.000-08:00

Our latest project was a replica of the Mutchler Center. Halfpint had to turn a Capri Sun box into the Mutchler Center for a school project. With a little tan paint, some green fleece, aluminium foil, cardboard, and yellow puff paint, we created the Mutchler Center. She also had to interview a staff member and type a paragraph report. She informed me that she would be graded on a 1,2,3 scale. As our finishing touch, we added a Hot Wheel car to the parking lot and she thinks that might move her from a 2 to a 3.

Repurpose #3

2012-01-22T17:35:00.000-08:00

For Christmas, my brother gave us an old, rustic, saved from an old farmstead, single trees. Well, it just happened that my repurpose book had a picture of a single tree attached to the ceiling above a bed. So guess what, we did it! BL is still a little skeptical about the heavy, solid, object falling on him while catching his beauty sleep. But I reassure him that more people die in car wrecks everyday, then falling single trees.

I think we need a brown cowhide pillow... sounds like a project for the wonder machine, JANOME!

Project #2

2012-01-19T19:25:00.000-08:00

Janome (my new amazing sewing machine) and I are becoming ONE! I recycled some old jeans into these cute little bags that hold my knitting and crocheting supplies. I love the big ric-rac, it covers uneven seams... not that Janome would ever let that happen. She is awesome!

Repurpose Project #1

2012-01-17T17:46:00.000-08:00

I received a book for Christmas that has repurpose project and ideas. I love it! It is full of amazing ideas. I also have an addiction with the Pinterest website. The combination of the two inspire me to find and repurpose junk! So, feast your eyes on project #1!

One old window, a little chicken wire, 7 old wooden spools, and TA DA, a new jewelery organizer. Eat your heart our Picka Sistas!

For Sale

2012-01-16T16:49:00.000-08:00

EGGS!

Holy chickens... the ladies have been busy!

The super buy of the week, and 18 pack of eggs for $2.00.

Farm fresh,

Free range,

Brown eggs,

and a few green,

Gathered daily,

Free delivery!

(within 30 miles)

Place your orders today!

Pirates

2012-01-11T18:14:00.000-08:00

We attended our annual Huggins Christmas last weekend at Honey Creek Resort. We enjoyed seeing and visiting with the whole family, swimming at the indoor water park, and eating wonderful soup. The kiddos liked going to the game room with Aunt Mary, while the big kiddos played cards and chatted. These mean Pirates loved the weekend!

Surfing

2012-01-04T17:53:00.000-08:00

No, not water surfing... world wide web surfing. I found a few amazing sites, you will have to check them out as soon as you have a few extra minutes or if you have an office job... just kidding LJS.

http://www.thefancyfarmgirl.com/ This website has a camper to die for, if pink is your thing. Once you get to the website go to favorites, my vintage trailer. It is so cute... but I would not trade either of my beauties!

http://www.houseofturquoise.com/ Go to 2011 #3, beautiful house! I must confess, I have turquoise in every room in my house, but just a touch.

http://www.redhouseranch.com/ This one is the best... this one is a must! See for yourself!

http://junkbonanza.blogspot.com/ Watch the video, all Picka Sistas load up, we are road tripping!

Happy Surfing!

Reflection

2011-12-31T06:15:00.000-08:00

As I reflect back on 2011, I realize we are very blessed,
for our warm home and fireplace,
for our health,
for our families,
for faith,
for good friends,
for the egg producing ladies,
for the pets... even Jingle Bunny,
for the checker board table on the front porch,
for my new Janome... she's quite a machine,
for Grandpa's cabin... fishing, trap shooting, eating,
for Christmas break... 4 1/2 months until summer
for making soap,
for garden vegetables,
for "glamper" camping,
for technology... the girls love their new gizmos,
and mostly, for the opportunity to experience and live life to the fullest!

For 2012, our goals are to...
arrive at school on time,
eat more vegetables,
keep homemade noodles in the freezer,
not loose any calves during calving,
make more soap,
weed the garden,
lower our rodeo times,
attend the Craig Reunion and Cheyenne this summer,
de-clutter more... started in the basement over break (4 bags of trash)
take piano lessons,

and enjoy every given moment!

Happy New Year to All!

(Note: house cleaning did not make either list)

ZeBrA

2011-12-30T19:46:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago we remodeled the girls' bedroom from sweet little cowgirls to rockin' zebra-print cowgirls! Here are some before and after photos... we also found some missing treasures when we "deep" cleaned their room. We misplaced a DS about 3 years ago... we found it! We also found "Blankie" who had been missing for 4 months. Absolutely amazing!

Before... do you see why we lost treasures?

After... nice new look!
Added some beautiful cowgirls!

Get Along Little Doggies

2011-12-28T08:36:00.001-08:00

Monday morning, we got the call... "Dad's moving cows today, can you keep them out of your yard and let the neighbors know?" Now, most people move cows with trailers, or horses, but not us... we move them right down the rode. That means, Dad leads the cows with his truck and a feed bucket and the rest of us keep them on the road and out of yards along the way. And "most" of the time this works well, but I can recall a few times that it did NOT! Once they shot through the evergreens at Helen's, another time they followed the truck out, got spooked, and returned to the pasture at a high rate of speed. A few years ago, the old cows were trained to travel from Richard's to Pete's (our ranch) except, curve ball, they were going to home, so they just circled the ranch house, and headed on down the road. Sometimes, the "I'm sick of running down the road" cow jumps the road fence and is M.I.A. for a few days... always unpredictable.

The next generation in training!

Here they come... I almost had to hurtle the fence, Olympic style, to keep them out of our hay... almost!

Get along little doggies!

And there they go... only with a few communication errors this time, the lovely ladies returned home to feed on fresh round bales of hay and sparkling ice cold water for a few months until they will produce another bumper crop of calves.

Homemade Christmas

2011-12-25T20:49:00.001-08:00

Our "Homemade Christmas gifts" were a great success again this year. I gave the six pack gift, including homemade vanilla, fire starters, homemade soap, and hand painted glamper ornaments. I love this tradition!

Homemade Noodles

2011-12-20T18:30:00.001-08:00

A couple days ago, the girls and I made noodles. I haven't ever made noodles. Our chickens finally started producing eggs again, 4-6 each day. Way to go ladies! With our abundance of eggs, we decided to make noodles. For supper tonight, we had homemade chicken noodle soup (not with the chickens, but with egg noodles) and beef and noodles are on the menu for tomorrow. The homemade noodles are awesome! BL even liked the soup. There is no reason why we can't have these noodles in our freezer all winter, Polly Pioneer thinks they are a must!

All I Want...

2011-12-05T19:59:00.001-08:00

For Christmas is my 2 front teeth!

Wreaths

2011-11-25T11:27:00.000-08:00

The first stack of 10 wreaths.

Our wonderful family agreed to make 350 fresh, Christmas wreaths for a local 4-H group. Must I say we have been eating, breathing, and sleeping greenery for the last 3 weeks. I must admit, it is a HUGE accomplishment. I am very proud of us all for #1 sticking with it, and #2 not hurting each other in the process. We have had a few (high note) awkward times, but we also have spent more "family time" together. Teamwork was the key to our success, without everyone's help, this task would have been impossible!

Three weeks, many beverages, countless hours, miles of plaid ribbon, tired kids...

350 lovely, fresh, beautiful, Christmas Wreaths!!!

Awesome work, Shumen Seasons!

The Wizard of OZ

2011-11-13T10:31:00.001-08:00

Halfpint is a Munchkin in the Community Players, The Wizard of Oz. She has been practicing once a week for about 6 weeks, and about every other day for 2 weeks. The performance is amazing. For a small community, we have wonderful actors and actresses. Of course, the lion is my favorite. Those people donate hours upon hours of their time... simply amazing. We are very proud of our Munchkin for her hard work and dedication!

cLoWnS

2011-10-30T18:55:00.000-07:00

We had a few early Trick or Treaters tonight, so I made the "costume up" for our guests. I made them into clowns... the same costume I once wore. My mom made these clown suits for my cousins, my brother, and me to Trick or Treat my Grandpa Harold in the hospital. The stripes and dots are showing a little age, but are still as cute as can be!

Farming

2011-10-10T20:09:00.001-07:00

Again this year we planted a smalll patch of the ranch in soybeans last spring. With our 18 acres of beans, we hire out our planting and harvesting. It took our "custom farmer" two hours to cut the beans. Within the two hours, the girls and I took BBQ beef sandwiches to the field. I remember loading in the station wagon with grandma and mom to take lunch to the field, to Edna's. It was ice tea and wash-day dinner at its best, on the tailgate those fall days. Later, I also remember being bummed because I had to go to school and everyone else got to take lunch to the field.

Little Pumpkin

2011-10-06T18:10:00.003-07:00

Our little pumpkin is now a Jack-o-lantern. Halfpint has pulled two teeth this week. Hope the Tooth Fairy remembers this time!

Mashed Potatoes

2011-09-26T17:46:00.000-07:00

We are glad to be back on the home front. BL and I recently went on a weekend getaway to a PRCA Rodeo in Omaha. (Remember last year, that is where I picked the inspiration to paint my house?) Well, this year I gather some fun, homemade, Christmas gift ideas. We attended the Farmer's Market on Old Market Street in Omaha, did a little shopping at Bass Pro, gambled a little, and had a fabulous time. The girls had a wonderful weekend with Aunt Lindsay and family, thanks again! I love to go places and see new things, but I also love to get home to pot roast and mashed potatoes! Half-pint ate three helpings, she must be growing!

Happy Homecoming

2011-09-23T06:49:00.001-07:00

The girls got home Wednesday and decided to dress up for Wacky Wednesday because their friends on the bus dressed up. Friday, Brett sported her dad's #55 jersey! Go 'stangs! Happy Homecoming!

Labor Day

2011-09-13T14:39:00.000-07:00

Over Labor Day weekend, we enjoyed the Union/Perry Township Days. The event included a 4-wheeler ride, (in the rain... what's that?) Annie Oakley Trap Shoot, (she was a famous Missourian) trail riding, and campfires. We truly enjoy spending time with our wonderful friends and family. Blessed are those who live in Union or Perry Township. (giggle, giggle)

Picker Sisters

2011-08-29T16:21:00.000-07:00

http://www.mylifetime.com/shows/picker-sisters

Check out this link to my new favorite show... it is amazing! While looking for monarch caterpillars in the back 40, I must confess, I have started "pickin" our junk!

There is a gold mine at the folk's north 40.

New projects are in the works!

From Grapes to Jelly

2011-08-28T14:23:00.001-07:00

Saturday afternoon we turned grapes into jelly. First, while the girls were swimming in the neighbor's pool, their mama picked grapes. She then called the master of all trades, Grandma Chuck, for a recipe. Of course, the master of all trades came running (actually driving) right over to help. In just a few hours, we were sampling wonderful, fresh, concord grape jelly... simply delectable!

Grape Jelly Recipe

Cook a large pan of grapes with 1 1/2 cups of water until the grapes are mashable. Run them through a tomato juicer. Pour 4 cups of juice into a pan, stir in fruit pectin, bring to boil. Add 7 cups of sugar, hard boil for 1 minute. Let sit for a few minutes, skim stuff off the top, pour in jars. We melted wax on top of jelly to preserve longer.

2nd and 4th

2011-08-25T14:49:00.001-07:00

It's hard to believe that the girls are in second and fourth grade. Just last week, I say one of my first fourth graders with a baby... man, am I old? We are all still adjusting, early bedtimes, early mornings, and lunch money? BL loves the thought of getting back in a routine, and together we will have a successful year. (yes, that is a teacher phrase)

Iowa State Fair

2011-08-15T10:53:00.001-07:00

We enjoyed the the state fair again this year... now it's back to school.

Tea Party

2011-08-12T08:50:00.001-07:00

Half pint dressed up in her finest duds and attended a Tea Party with her friends. She was amazed with the little cubes of sugar, they even put them n the tea. I bet she used ten.

Swimming

2011-08-04T08:42:00.001-07:00

We have spent many of these hot day in the water... at swimming lessons, an afternoon at the Beach with cousins, and at our neighbors` pools. The girls are developing fins!

DC Fair 2011

2011-07-28T07:20:00.001-07:00

Turtle Charmer C wrote a story about Princess B and B for the Queen contest Wednesday night of the fair... absolutely the cutest story at the fair. It must have worked because the "Turtle Charmer" won the DC 2011 Queen Contest. Way to go "Turtle Charmer!"

Cherry Bomb and Thunderstorm were part of the Cattleman's Bucket Bottle Show. The girls did a great job. Cherry Bomb's leader won her class, but couldn't pull off the BIG title. She also was given a hot, pink show stick because she has shown in this event for 4 years. GREAT JOB!Miss CC is the real turtle charmer. She won two monster trophies and was extremely excited and proud! She was so fun to watch... she smiled for three days!
Believe it or not, she does do a little work!
This mean team placed second in the kids games Saturday morning in the three legged race. Grandpa Ralph coached them to take home the silver... or $3 and a pop.

Sunday, Halfpint threw a flip-flop and eliminated herself from the Pedal Tractor Pull Trophy.
This year as always, the Utts all attend and compete in the fair... many successes, a few disappointments, but always a wonderful, fun time.

Those past presidents are smiling down from above!

Minute to Win It

2011-07-25T10:50:00.001-07:00

Halfpint entered the Minute to Win It at the fair, eating pretzels with a gummy worm. She has great focus and determination for 1 minute, it's the 2 minute mark that we sometimes have trouble. She won $20 and had a mouthful of pretzels!

(I am blogging from my phone, something new I'm trying???)

Bible Boot Camp

2011-07-20T12:52:00.001-07:00

Last week, we attended Bible Boot Camp at the Troy UMC. We put on our God's armor, made shields of faith, helmets of salvation, belts of truth. We also sang "I'm in the Lord's Army." (an all time favorite) It was a great week! Drill Sargent Leslie keep her troops very busy and HOT! BL was drafted for the pie eating contest, but had already ate to much supper and got second place.

Off to the DC Fair we go!

Summer Projects

2011-07-14T05:56:00.000-07:00

Here at the Lough Ranch, or should I call it Project City, we have been very busy cutting, tying, and taping.

The girls made fleece blankets, they even picked out their own colors and patterns.

We used zebra duck-tape to embellish the "show tote" (like a show box, that will go to the fair with the bottle calves, and hold feed, buckets, brushes and other useful objects... is it big enough?)

We have also adorned our lovely cowboy hats with beautiful pink, cheap, silk flowers. These Dollar General jewels replaces the large feathers and provide a taste of girly-ness to the hat.

Last week we welcomed Canon Guy to the family, our projects started then, when Brett helped me embroidery-thread quilt a blanket for her newest cousin. Her stitches were not even and sometimes she would miss a stitch... but looking at the finished project, one couldn't tell her stitches from mine?????

Happy Independence Day

2011-07-06T10:27:00.000-07:00

Of course our 4th of July was celebrated at the Ft. Bloomfield Rodeo, we enjoyed riding in the parade, volunteering at the rodeo, camping in the RV, cheering for the local contestants, watching the fireworks, and participating in the "calf dressing" competition. BL and Rodeo Committee team took home the big money, beating the rest of us! We need a rematch, maybe at the Chuck Union??

Firecracker

2011-07-02T09:47:00.001-07:00

Seven years ago today, I gave birth to a 9 pound 9oz. baby firecracker. She was born just before noon, and I vividly remember asking for good drugs and the nurse told me, "Oh honey, there isn't enough time, you are ready to have a baby!" Those words were so comforting... THIS PREGNANCY WAS OVER! And in a few pushed, WA-LA, we had a firecracker. With all the challenges she brings to our lives, she is a fun-loving, wonderful little girl!

She requesting her favorite breakfast food, pancakes, this morning for breakfast... thanks Jenn B. for the homemade pancake recipe in the SC Elem. Cookbook, simply delectable!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, LITTLE FIRECRACKER!

KC

2011-06-24T10:58:00.001-07:00

Last week we traveled to Kansas City for a little summer vacation time. We went to World's of Fun and Ocean's of Fun. We went with the Porter family. Our girls are the same age. The water rides were our favorite. The fellows of our group enjoyed the thrilling roller coasters. All in all, we all had a blast.

Clarence

2011-06-20T19:10:00.000-07:00

What happens when a goat gets his head caught in the woven wire fence? We get him out.

What happens when Clarence gets his head caught in the woven wire fence 7 times in one day? BL tapes a piece of black, plastic, water line pipe to his horns... let this be a lesson for the other 8 fellow grazers.

Buckets

2011-06-14T11:04:00.001-07:00

The first picture was shot last summer after a big rain. You can the water ran over the bridge. Half pint is standing next to the light pole and Grandpa is beside the bench.

The water level set a new record high today, the light pole is in the middle of the picture, and the bench and bridge is completely under water.

It has rained buckets over the last few days... will we ever see the beach again?

Glampers

2011-06-07T08:57:00.001-07:00

Home on the Range

Even though we cut our camping weekend short with the forecasted rain, we still had an wonderful time. We grilled out, rode bikes, swam with a few little snakes, and even played some checkers. Like a kid in a candy store, I pulled out my new camp fire cooking equipment and tried it out. We even inspired the neighbors with our unique campers. Looking forward to our next outing and making more memories in our little Glampers! (glamor campers)

Checkers

2011-06-05T07:16:00.001-07:00

We have a new game craze at the Lough Ranch. The girls and I made a table out of a few old windows we had in the barn. They helped paint a checker board on the top. We use poker chips for the checker pieces. Now we have a permanent checker board on the front porch. We find ourselves playing "just one more game" quite a bit. BL admitted to not having much experience in this field... so he has been the "confident boaster" for his opponents. The neighbors stop and play. Grandpa and Grandma have polished their skills. Uncle Lincoln needs beat. We love the company and the challenge of a game. After countless games, some name calling, and much frustration, BL finally beat me... now the challenge is on!!!!

Accomplishments

2011-05-25T16:59:00.000-07:00

Over the last few days, we have been very busy. Our little actress performed in a play as a goose and sang a solo. She did a wonderful job. She must get the solo singing from her mom... NOT! Her BFF is in the chef hat. The BFF's mom sent me these pictures. Thank you! Thank you!

The BFF's mom is also a third grade teacher... the teacher of this wonderful, growing girl that received a citizenship and perfect attendance award, truly so proud of our third grader! Thanks Grandma for being there and thanks BL for being my camera man!

And as for me... accomplished year number 11!

Quilt?

2011-05-16T19:46:00.000-07:00

Before the sun became warmer and the days longer, I pieced together all the scraps of fabric that I uses to refurbish our campers. As I dug out more bags of fabric from my "sewing room," (a.k.a. under the round table in the basement) I began making a quilt. The unique masterpiece has been finished for some time now, but hopefully will be put to use on our first camping adventure this weekend. As I cleaned the old beauty out this spring, I also found an awning hidden is the back end... a buried treasure! So the girls and I cleaned it up and can't wait to try our new accessories!

Side note: The quilt is tied, not quilted!

I think I can!

2011-05-05T19:32:00.000-07:00

I think I can! I think I can... I feel like the Little Engine That Could! I think I can make it 13 and one half more days of school this year. The Little Engine works really hard to get to the top of the hill and the higher he climbs, the slower he goes... that's me!

I am ready to mow my yard as the sunshine tans my skin, get and drink coffee in my PJs for hours, stay up late and sleep in!

And blog daily... I have some catching up to do... sorry!

WE ARE READY FOR SUMMER!

Peepers

2011-04-19T19:23:00.000-07:00

We have 15 strong healthy peepers. They are absolutely amazing... they fall asleep standing up... when they get on their back, they go nuts... they backup and flutter their wings when they poop, funny... they snuggle under the heat lamp to sleep. Absolutely hilarious and amazing, little peepers!

And some have red toenails (I tried to "mark" the females???)

Chick Update

2011-04-18T20:48:00.000-07:00

As of 10:49 p.m. on Monday night, day 22, ten chicks have hatched. Eight peepers are strong and healthy. Two are still in ICU, hoping they will make it through the night. Three eggs in the incubator have holes.

Chicks!!!

2011-04-17T19:32:00.001-07:00

At 6:30 p.m. this evening, I return to to the basement to check the eggs. For the past 21 days I have turned the eggs 3 times a day, misted the eggs for 3 day and checked the temperature. To my surprise, I found 3 eggs with holes in them. After supper, I return to check again... one hatched! It is the ugliest, little, soggy-looking, weak, creature I have ever seen, but in its own way it is soooo cute. Then about 10 minutes later... soggy, ugly chick #2 hatched, even more miserable-looking than the first. As pitiful as they look, I am totally amazed at them. How many more will there be????

Skippy John Jones

2011-04-14T19:22:00.001-07:00

Skippy John Jones is our cat. He is not the everyday barn cat that we have

had in the past or current. I must confess, I am not a cat lover, but this kitty wins my heart. He is not the average kitty. He mingles with all animals here at the Lough Ranch. He climbs horse tails. He walks the hitching post and sits in saddles. He sleeps in the hay in the barn all the time and when the four-wheeler pulls in, he doesn't even wake up. He comes to the house and garage, and we allow it. When he was a kitten, Halfpint could do anything with him. She named him after the Skippy John Jones books. They are about a cat who thinks he is a dog. I'm not sure what Skippy thinks??? He is very unusual, and Skippito is a keeper!

Thank Heaven for Little Girls!

2011-04-13T19:28:00.000-07:00

Our dance season is coming to an end with the recital only a few weeks away. Pictures were last weekend. We did side pony tails, light blue eye shadow, and shimmery lip gloss, they are so fun. Lucky for me, the girls are in the same class this year, one picture, one dance, one costume apiece... great fun! I hope we continue to see these smiles during the recital! Thank heaven for little girls!

Birthday Bash

2011-04-04T19:37:00.000-07:00

Our Birthday Bash was a success! Despite the low egg numbers, oven failure, and peppermint frosting, the cake "Hippie Chick" cake was edible. The many kids enjoyed the silly string, bubbles, and awesome weather. Everyone helped pick in with supper, thanks! We are so blessed to have so many to share these events with. Smokey the Bear, aka Lincoln, controlled the forest fire and entertained the sheriff. The after party camp fire was relaxing and a great way to end the adventurous day. Happy Birthday, Girls!

(we had guests from 3 different states, impressive for a 5 and 9 year old)

9

2011-03-29T19:32:00.001-07:00

Nine years ago today, the price of gas was $1.40 per gallon, a gallon of milk cost $2.29, a stamp cost 34 cents, and at 4:47 a.m. I became a mother. Holy moley, how things change! We looked through the birthday girl's baby book today and enjoyed every single minute. We will celebrate Saturday with family; hamburgers, hot dogs, tater salad, pasta salad, and cake and ice cream, with Cousin Clara. The cake plan is to design a "Hippie Chick" Peace Sign on a round layered cake. Wish me luck!

Roller coasters

2011-03-24T15:10:00.000-07:00

Life is such a roller coaster, enjoy the peeks, and hang on though the valleys.

This week's peeks...
girls had GREAT report cards,
my Blueberry-Cream Cheese French Toast recipe was AWESOME,
42 days until summer break (who's counting?)
making soap was a success,
3 live healthy baby calves,
our new grill rocks,
I feel much better than I did 9 years ago,
6 new goats made the ranch their home,
and it hasn't snowed yet.

The valleys are...
Daisy, our dog of 7 years, sadly died,
calls from the school nurse,
teaching fractions,
BL pulled a backwards, dead calf,
our oven quit working (thankful for the new grill),
and what happened to the 70 degree temperature?

Without the valleys, the peeks would not be so wonderful!

Grandma?

2011-03-16T19:06:00.001-07:00

If I raised the hens of the newly hatching chicks, does this mean I am a Grandma?

If Brett's bottle baby from 2 years ago had a baby calf Friday night, does this mean she is a Grandma?

I absolutely LOVE this weather, the longer daylight, and living on a farm where new life begins everyday, truly miracles! To these little creatures, our daily drama is nonexistent!

Eagle Eggs

2011-03-09T16:43:00.000-08:00

Around Decorah, Iowa there is a live camera on a nest of eagle eggs. I tried to embed this on my blog so I can keep up with the progress. My students are quite interested in this unique process. I have researched a little about them, here is what I have learned...
*eagles lay 1-3 eggs per year
*males and females both incubate the eggs
*theses eggs will hatch around April 1st
*eagle nest are 5-9 feet in diameter
*Bald Eagles were endangered in the 1970's, moved to the threatened list in the 90's, and were removed from the list in 2004
*there were over 9,000 viewers watching the nest today

AMAZING!

Consumed!

2011-02-27T19:54:00.000-08:00

Over the past few weeks, I have been consumed by a book. Not just a book, the best book ever! I have never been much of a "sit down and read a book" type gal... love to read to kids, will read magazines, or read for school. But, High Heels to Tractor Wheels is the best book ever, all 319 pages. I read on the way to and from school (while Lori was driving), chapters a day. Pioneer Woman is so real and what not to love about the Marlboro Man. On this foggy, chilly Sunday, I finished the book. May the temperatures rise and the grass grow, I'm ready for spring!

Squinkie House

2011-02-17T11:21:00.001-08:00

You may be wondering... a "what" house? Let me introduce you to one of Halfpint's Christmas gifts, SQUINKIES! Last Christmas, Halfpint told us that squinkies were on her list. Of course, I thought, what is that? I'm sure she saw them on a commercial and added them to her list. I had looked a few times, not even sure what I was looking for, and gave up. She was also the girls who wanted a real firetruck a few years ago~what? Grandma Vicki saved Christmas with the Squinkies. They are little rubber creatures that come in little plastic balls, just like the "treasures" that come form the quarter machines right inside the doors at Pizza Hut. Every household needs some, or hundreds! On our snow days a few weeks ago, the girls made Squinkie houses. Please note that there are 13 creatures in this house, and this house was one of the many houses in our living room. For more information on these fabulous trinkets, please visit www.squinkies.com

1 Down, 1 To Go!

2011-02-09T19:15:00.000-08:00

Half-pint's teeth are coming in behind her baby teeth. A few weeks ago, we made a trip to the dentist inquiring what to do. He said we either wiggle and pull it or "get" it pulled, surgically. She wiggled, I wiggled... she pulled it. She has wanted to loose a tooth for so long, she got it! We think she might be a dentist, she pulled 2 teeth for her friend. The other bottom, front tooth is coming in the same way, WE are back to wiggling, every hour on the hour for at least 1 minute! The tooth must come out!

Hard to Believe

2011-02-04T06:40:00.000-08:00

It is hard to believe...
that we have missed four and one half snow days this week,
there is at least 15 inches of snow on the ground,
the drifts around our ranch are over 2 feet deep,
it's Friday morning and the laundry is caught up,
Ozzy, the smallest goat, did not make it thought the snow storm and cold temperatures,
BL has managed to keep the other livestock fed, watered and alive,
yesterday I gathered 7 eggs,
my quilt is complete,
Bri and I finished the new couch pillows,
Punxsutawney Phil says spring is on its way, (really?)
President Obama declared Missouri a state of disaster,
we watched old home videos yesterday (where did those sweet babies go?)
and I have not been to town in 4 days.

Ta Da!

2011-02-01T07:43:00.001-08:00

These pictures are the finished project of our painting. I love the new paint, everything "looks" so clean and refreshed. Thanks to the wonderful help, all is put back together. I apologize for my delay in posting, the Hallmark channel has had western movies on their channel. I must confess, I have watched to many to name... I love DVR! So TA DA, the painting is complete, and now let those westerns roll. I might even break out Lonesome Dove (giggle, giggle) I love snow days as well!

Under Construction

2011-01-21T06:02:00.000-08:00

The Lough Ranch is currently under construction! Our sheet rock had cracked from the house settling over the past year years, therefore a construction man came and fixed it. Because we have to repaint over the fixed sheet rock, we should change our simple white walls to something warmer, softer, a more homey feel. The new colors are Honey Carmel and Coffee something?? We are in for a weekend of brushes, beverages, and buddies!

Thanks to the great helpers last night! If AJ has 7 toes, you can blame it on painting.

the "kids"

2011-01-16T14:46:00.001-08:00

We have some new additions here at the Lough Ranch. Leroy, Tim, Boots, Cloud, and Ozzy are now living in our barn and eating 4 quarts of milk a day. Bri named Tim, not sure why? Cloud is all white, obviously. Ozzy has black stripes on his face, Ozzy Osbourn. Boots has black boots on all four feet. Leroy, well, BL calls him "poop" knuckle brown... and he is named after James Leroy. They are so cute when they are babies, why do they have to grow up?

Huggins Christmas

2011-01-11T08:16:00.000-08:00

We again enjoyed a great weekend at Honey Creek Resort. The kiddos all loved the indoor water park and the arcade games. The girls thought the arcade was "sweet" because they don't get that opportunity very often. As you can see in the first picture, Cousin Clara was ecstatic about the tattoos. Once again, we are so blessed to be part of a wonderful family!

Happy New Year!

2011-01-04T17:50:00.000-08:00

Our goals for 2011 are...
wiggle a tooth for 2 minutes every hour on the hour,
read more,
go to Shimick Forest twice this year,
cook over an open fire with dutch ovens,
rope in the arena at least 10 times,
burn smokin' hot fires,
gather eggs again,
camp,
build a bond with Bill and Brett,
enjoy others and shoot for the stars!

(the stripes are for the girls)

Love this season!

2010-12-22T07:14:00.000-08:00

Top ten reasons I love this season...
1. eyes twinkle with excitement
2. the scurry of finishing my homemade gifts
3. the secret of knowing others' gifts
4. the magic in the air
5. the true story of Christmas
6. the girls excited to spend their money on someone else
7. my husbands strange questions about mixing paint???
8. 2 weeks with no alarm clock
9. snow in the forecast
10. receiving new cards in the mail everyday

Trivia Time

2010-12-16T14:29:00.000-08:00

It is trivia time for you... 1. who was the first African American to reach the North Pole?
2. What happened on this day in 1773?

(To enter the contest, just post your hypothesis {educated guess} and you could be the lucky winner of a bag of puppy chow... ooohhh, ahhhh!)

By the way, I have done a few OLD WOMAN moves today... sending two Christmas cards to the same friends, forgetting to leave a few things for my sub, and leaving the laundry soap out of the washer. What does this mean? 33 could be rough!

3 syllables

2010-12-14T14:55:00.000-08:00

I can describe my current thoughts is 3 syllable expressions...
Chris*mas*break
fi*re*place
wrap*ping*gifts
Christ*mas*cards
home*made*gifts
three*more*days
Che*la*da
... feel free to clap the syllables, it's fun!

Helicopter Parent?

2010-12-10T11:26:00.000-08:00

Recently my principal made a reference to "helicopter parents" while we were having a meeting. Then she explained herself... a parent that hovers over their child and does not let them make decisions for themselves. I thought this term was very interesting. During our evening compute last night, my co-pilot/worker, decided we were raised by a "Stealth-bomber", sit back, let them make their own choices, then when incorrect, bomb them! We tend to parent like we were parented. I feel I am also like a Stealth-bomber. So are you a Helicopter or a Stealth-bomber?

The Story of the Christmas Wreath

2010-12-08T06:05:00.000-08:00

Once upon a time on a little old ranch, lived a Christmas wreath. The wreath was hand crafted by good old Grandma Suzy. It was a little thicker on one side than the other, and it had a few long branches, but it still looked as lovely as can be. One day the wreath was wired to a gate on the end of the arena, where visitors could admire it as the drove up the driveway. Then one day, something bad happened to the wreath. The heifers in the lot got very hungry and ate it. Now, the little old wreath hangs on the gate with only a few sprigs of evergreen left and its frame exposed. Someone hopefully someone will fix it and the little old Christmas wreath will live happier ever after!

Pictures

2010-12-02T06:05:00.000-08:00

In the darkness of the morning, I sat on the edge of the girl's bed to wake there sleepy head and noticed something. Something hanging on the wall in the clear slops of the grow tall with me wall hanger. There were three pictures staring at me, three pictures of boys. Immediately my mind starts spinning... oh my, who are these boys, boyfriends, last week fourth graders were holding hands, I will have a fourth grader next year! I stumbled over the toys and clothes lying on the floor and throw on the lights. Relieved I see the smiles of the three Rising Stars! My mind was eased a little!

SNOW

2010-11-30T17:45:00.001-08:00

With the first "dusting" of snow on the ground, the excitement was in the air. These are a few of the comments I heard today... "this is tracking snow... are we getting out at 1:05... this is a blizzard... do we need our snow pants?" Man, the site of white stuff sure throws focusing out the window! Someone once told me that the number of the day of the first snow is the number of times it will snow. Will Old Man Winter really give us snow 30 more times?

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-22T14:28:00.000-08:00

As an assignment today, I instructed my fourth graders to write a paragraph about the one thing they are the most thankful for. We have been working on writing a paragraph for weeks... main idea sentence and supporting details. I tried to give them an example paragraph but I could not settle on only one topic. Most of them chose either family or friends and their paragraphs are finally starting to improve. Maybe tomorrow, I will instruct them to make a list. May we all reflect on giving thanks during this Thanksgiving!

I am thankful for...

my deep roots,

a close family,

2 beautiful, healthy girls,

my husband,

living on a farm,

independence,

our little county church,

fresh air,

education,

small towns,

friends and neighbors,

sunshine,

and most of all... every single day!

Don't sweat the small stuff!

2010-11-15T17:51:00.000-08:00

Last week was a time for sharing joys and concerns. I will start with the concerns, first we said goodbye to Red. Most of you know that he was not our pony, we fortunately just borrowed him from our friends for a few years. It was time for Red to travel on to another family. The old, trusted, fat pony has blessed 5 families. He will be greatly missed. A few tears fell, but we must be thankful for all that we have learned from him. I recently received a picture text from Red's new family and I must admit, it assured us that Red needs to be there. The next concern comes from child #2. Gertrude, the chicken that hatched in her Kindergarten class, is no longer with us. We sadly found her feathers in the yard. Once again, things like this happen, and we can hatch more chicks in the spring. Gertrude will remain as a memory. #2 has also had a sore throat and she smashed her finger in a door, but is feeling much better.

Now for the joy! The concerns are only small issues in our lives. When we look at the BIG picture, we must realize how small our daily troubles are and must remember don't sweat the small stuff!

Memories

2010-11-09T07:51:00.000-08:00

I remember when I was about 10 years old, my grandma killing a skunk. My brother, sister, and our neighbor kids, who we spent a lot of time with, were playing at Grandma's house in the yard. All the sudden, Grandma instructed us to get to the porch, there was a skunk in the yard. I can still see the images of Grandma slaying the skunk with a hoe. Some things never change. A few days ago, the girls and I watch Grandma from her kitchen window beating a opossum with a broom. The difference, she's 80, I'm a mom, and the girls will be the ones left with memories!

Happy Thursday

2010-11-04T14:40:00.000-07:00

Happy Thursday! and boy, am I ready for Friday! Today started rather early with a 7:15 PD meeting at school... that means I leave at 6:45, that means I drove in the complete dark, that means my wonderful husband does hair. The girls got out of school early because this week is parent\teacher conferences for them and no school tomorrow. The conferences were great... but we have a few things to work on, they both have wonderful teachers. The girls went with BL to his job site this afternoon (which happened to be the neighbors and my sister's house.) As soon as I got home, I picked them up. Before we left, they had to show me their hay fort in Adam's barn equipped with its own bathroom. The little pony-tailed, dirtballs were so proud. I love creativity!

I applied for a US Cellular Grant a few months ago. Last week, I got an email congratulating me that I was funded. Today, two boxes of books arrived at my classroom door. Toot, Toot! (that's my own horn honking)

Happy Thursday, and enjoy the weekend!

Trick or Treat

2010-10-29T06:12:00.000-07:00

Hope you have a happy and safe Halloween!

Christmas Wreath

2010-10-22T05:56:00.001-07:00

$10.00
$20.00

The next Project is making Christmas Wreathes. We, my lovely siblings and spouses and I, bought two wreath making machines. Many moons ago, I worked at a Christmas tree farm making wreathes. I truly enjoyed the magicalness that comes with the season, chilly weather, hot cider, the smell of evergreens, and the happiness of people. We are making and selling wreathes out of the trees my mom planted 20 years ago for our college fund. Well, good thought Mom, but we have all four made it though college and the trees are still standing. Our goal is to use the trees to make, decorate, sell, and deliver wreathes the weekend after Thanksgiving. (unless we have some special orders before) We have many different sizes. The smallest is a 20 inch wreath made on a 10 inch frame for $10.00 (first picture). The next size is a 30 inch wreath (second picture) made on a 20 inch frame for $20.00. We also have some BIGGER frames and swags. By request, we will also made some evergreen grave toppers.

PLACE YOUR ORDERS TODAY!

Project #3

2010-10-20T06:09:00.001-07:00

Project number three,
Is made from a Christmas tree,
Now you are thinking what,
Yes, it will be made by an Utt!

Stay tuned for pictures and prices.

Home on the Range

2010-10-14T19:13:00.000-07:00

Oh, give me a camper,

Where the beds are all made,
The girls and their cousins play,

And the skies are not cloudy all day!

Home, home on the range,

Where the campers are OLD,

When the campfires blaze,

And the enjoy the days!

Oh, yes! The Home on the Range camper is almost complete. if we had air in the tire, we would be ready to roll! I would like to send a special THANK YOU for all that helped! I couldn't have done it without you all!

(sorry the picture is dark... daylight seems to be an issue, I promise some better pictures, later)

#2

2010-10-12T18:33:00.000-07:00

This is project #2, the IH is being replaced but not forgotten! The new 1968 beauty is under construction at the moment. The two beautiful ladies in the picture helped with the first stage... we are now on stage 3 of painting. The inside painting is in tomorrow's agenda. Fabric on Thursday. Fix-a-Flat and roof repair before lift off on Saturday at noon! I love deadlines!

Projects!

2010-10-11T18:15:00.000-07:00

Project #1

As most of you know, I am always working on projects. If I had to analyze myself, I would say I work on projects so I don't have to clean house, or mow the yard, or do laundry. If I am working on a "project" I don't feel guilty about SLACKING on the other household chores. This week I'm going to share some of my "projects" with you. I also must confess that my project completion time has slowed down in the last few months... my day job slows the projects down. This picture is the barn addition project that BL and I did a few weeks ago, BL finished it while I was at the day job! It is his affordable shop, maybe the unaffordable shop will appear after we win the Lottery.

Can anyone guess what project #2 will be? Pictures will be posted soon!

Inspired

2010-09-27T15:05:00.001-07:00

We recently traveled to Omaha to Ak-sar-ben to the Rodeo and Stock Show... great rodeo, good times, wonderful weekend! On our little weekend great-a-way, we went to the Twister Fork for supper, this little joint on Market Street is amazing. I am now, after 9 years, INSPIRED to paint my white living room walls! Let me know what you think!

As soon as the snow flies, I will get got my paint brushes!

Run for it!

2010-09-21T17:33:00.000-07:00

My afternoon commute was very soggy, I was even considering pulling over because it was raining so hard. I did not have my encouraging sidekick by my side, Pigpen. The Rubber Duck trudged along and made it just fine, and the girls told me they had "to make a run for it" from the bus to the house. They did get a little wet, but they did not melt! Rain is forcasted for the next few days, we may have to bale the yard.

Science Projects

2010-09-14T18:16:00.000-07:00

Well, I am not proud of this but I must confess... I had a few Science projects growing in my refrigerator. Back to school means no one is here during the day to eat the leftovers. Therefor they live in my Tupperware (thanks to Mrs. Sprouse) for WAY to long. Let me describe. The roast beef was fuzzy, the salsa was extra chunky, the hard boiled eggs were greenish slimy, and I believe I almost had watermelon wine. No fear, the Science projects are all in the weeds composting as we speak and my refrigerator has a pleasant smell again!

We must update the real Science projects... we have chrysalises 7 that we are anxiously watching and waiting for them to turn into beautiful monarch butterflies.

Burnt-out!

2010-09-08T18:33:00.000-07:00

As I was just brushing my teeth and prying my old retainer in my mouth, I realized that the old, thin, DC Football t-shirt I had on looked like the stylist BURNT-OUT t-shirts that one can buy in stores today. You know the ones that are almost see-though, the ones that moms have to wear tank tops under, the ones that are to look wore out... well, DC Football is burnt-out, worn out, almost see-though with holes under the arms, and one of my favorite, old, soft, cotton, comfy shirts!

Hay Help

2010-08-29T20:01:00.001-07:00

We have the best hay help around! Halfpint was the driver, and Handy was on the rack (flatbed trailer.) As you can see, Halfpint snoozed while we unloaded in the barn. We put about 130 bales in our barn and 88 in the neighbor's barn. I love to work with the girls!

1st and 3rd

2010-08-25T04:46:00.000-07:00

First day of school was great... excited to get out of bed, loved the new teachers, wore the new clothes, had new backpacks. We are all looking forward to a wonderful new year!

Holey Ears!

2010-08-17T18:56:00.001-07:00

No holes!

New holes!

A few weeks ago, (right after my last blog, I am a slacker) the girls got their ears pierced. They were troopers, no tears! They can't wait until September 15... they can change their earrings.

Puppies

2010-07-29T07:26:00.001-07:00

Molly, daughter of Ollie (coyote hunting icon,) gave birth to 7 puppies on June 26. BL is so proud of these little creatures. I remember when we brought Molly home as a puppy, I must admit she was pretty cute. Brett was about 18 mouths old, Molly would run after her tripping on the grass, her own legs, or anything else.

Now the little, cute puppies are chow hounds, growing everyday, waiting to go to their new homes, and just waiting for their first hunt!

Maybe we need an ark?

2010-07-22T08:12:00.000-07:00

Storm clouds, bring rain...
rain makes grass grow and grow...

rain runs into the pond... OVER THE BRIDGE!

We have had many inches of rain this week. Maybe we need to build an ark like Moses...

just kidding Noah built the ark!

VBS

2010-07-21T07:38:00.000-07:00

Troy United Methodist Church Bible School Program 2010

Picture it!

2010-07-15T11:00:00.000-07:00

We have had a 2 week break from riding our ponies because we have very busy with other things, so Tuesday we rode. The ponies were frisky, the girls were complaining... "we're hot, can we go watch TV? We can ride later, blah, blah!" We must ride again, soon. So today we ate scrambled eggs with Velveeta cheese in them, the best, then I head out to catch the beasts. As I tied up Tilly, I saw the girls walking across the back yard... holey-knee jeans tucked in their boots, old t-shirts with the sleeves cut off, and ball caps covering their messy unbrushed hair. I giggle out loud, what a proud moment that was! By the way, we rode to the back pasture to check the blackberries, they need a few more weeks, and the ponies and girls did much better!

County Fair

2010-07-14T06:17:00.001-07:00

At the fair last week we...

celebrated a birthday

(Happy Birthday Grandma Suzy, awesome cake Ashley),

camped in the IH,

wore mud boots,showered in the shower house,

rode an elephant,

showed Bill and Rosie,

played Bingo,

ate fair food,

rode rides,

lost Briley (only for a short time),

saw many friends,

entered a stick horse rodeo,

won the water balloon toss (thanks Coach Eric),

worked for the Cattleman,

found horseshoes,

played Minute It to Win It,

and had a great time!

Many thanks go to the volunteers that help with the fair,

we are so fortunate to have a wonderful County Fair year after year!

July 4th

2010-07-06T12:30:00.000-07:00

These little cowgirls are ready to go watch the first night of the rodeo. It is so nice that they are old enough to go and enjoy it, and go with the flow through the late nights, afternoon naps, and eating whenever!

The girls are practicing their Queen wave for the 4th of July parade!
They sure enjoyed watching the fireworks with their best buddies ever
from the top of a pickup cab!

The beginning of July starts our summer craziness, Bri's birthday, Ft. Bloomfield Rodeo, then the DC Fair... all within the first 11 days of July. Loving summer and loving my job!

Happy Birthday!

2010-07-01T15:54:00.000-07:00

Homemade ice cream, fireworks, friends, and family at Grandpa's cabin

Classmates at the city park and pool for some birthday fun!

Happy 6th Birthday!

First trip to Lake

2010-06-22T07:54:00.000-07:00

After spending 2 hours cleaning, 1 hour loading, and another 2 hours preparing, we finally headed to Lake Rathburn for our first boating trip. The lake is very full (when it rains everyday, the rain must go somewhere,) therefore, only 3 boat ramps were open. We drove around another hour finding a ramp and a place to park. Is anyone adding the time up? Oh yes, when we got the boat to in the water, it smoked like a S.O.B. After 30 minutes and white smoke everywhere, BL got the boat running... Hip Hip HOORAY! So finally after almost 7 hours we were on the lake, soaking in the vitamin D. Halfpint loves tubing, Brett enjoyed the company of Grandma Suzy ON the boat.

This is the water level... I wondered if we could make it under the bridge... we did, I wished I had some spray paint.