A Day At Bradenton Beach

When we first got there the skies looked menacing, thought we might have to leave, but it cleared up. Look at the color of that water..it was wonderful.

This day was my sister's birthday, and she's sitting in her favorite chair, in her favorite place. The Beach, any beach!

These little guys are the "beggars", if you feed one, the all come.

They are experts in catching the food, some of them will fly right in front of you to catch your throws.

Florida

Well, tomorrow will be two weeks since we arrived in Florida. The villa was supposed to be painted and fixed before we got here.


Not only was it painted the same dull, flat color throughout, but it was also painted over dirt, and what my sister thought was "gray" corking around the baseboards, was nothing but pure dirt in bedded on the corking. The back porch was missing a screen and almost all of the others have holes in them. My screen was infested with ants, and although, I didn't think metal screen frames could rot, the one on my bedroom window was not only bent out of shape, but was infested with ants.


Along with that, I got eaten up by the "no see'em" bugs. My sister got an exterminator to come out first thing. I got something for my itching.


We have been working non stop, cleaning, painting, re-screening two and half doors, the landlady took mine to be replaced.


We took two days off to go to the beach. One day we went to Venice Beach and yesterday to Bradenton beach. I loved the latter. The water was so clear you can see the bottom as far as you can walk out there. The best part of it all, is you can park right up to it and don't have to drag your stuff too far.

Slight Change

Isn't it strange how addictive the Internet has become in our lives? It seems to be part of it like brushing your teeth. It also becomes as habit forming as a drug. Once your on it, communicating through email, playing games or just surfing the web, one tends to get withdrawal symptom when we are unable to utilize it.


I was planning on turning in the equipment this morning, but my sister absolutely cant live with out it. So, while she is getting the truck in the morning, I will have to run to HTC to turn everything in. I hate last minute crap, but more than that, I would hate to hear her complain about not having access to the computer.


Personally I like to get "all my ducks in a row", early. It unnerves me to wait to the last minute. I have always been that way. But, that's just me.

Two More Days

It is Sunday night and I have done a lot more packing today. Tomorrow was the last day we have to get everything packed. We pick up the truck Tuesday morning, get it loaded and off we go.
Tuffy has been watching me like a hawk. Every room I went into, he was there. It's like he's saying, "Hey, don't forget me." He has done this through the years we have been together. Last time I moved he stayed by the boxes.
Tomorrow I will be off line until I get settled in Florida. That will be at least four to five days. Am sure going to miss it. Love playing Slingo and I Won Fish Games. At the end of the day, when I have finished everything I need to do, I play those games to relax and not think of anything other than whats on the screen.
So, all I have to say to Myrtle Beach SC is this: Adios, I'm outa here, and hasta la vista baby!

Moving Frustrations-3

I'm on line with Verizon, answer their questions, then once again proceed to explain my plight. "Let me connect you to someone who can handle this", OK, now maybe we're getting somewhere. (Not in this life time!) "No, we can't email you anything, but we will be sending you conformation in the mail."

"To which address?"
"The one in Florida."
"That won't do me any good, I need it here in SC" (What the hell, am I asking for a million dollars? I'm going to need an "anger management intervention real soon!)

I try calling "Moving Utilities" again, still unable to get a person, and try online, "live chat", guess who answers..that's right, it's Samantha again! I got nowhere fast!

I could have saved myself a headache, (believe me, I had a bad one) if I stopped chasing my tail and looked over the situation calmly. I get the phone book and look up the head office of HTC here, and finally got someone in charge! Yes, indeed! I explain the most of my dilemma, and asked her if I could forward the email of conformation to her while I wait on line with her to receive it. I would even give her my password to get into the site if she wanted further proof.

How great was that? It worked, I got her first and last name, her word that I wouldn't be charged for early disconnect and the last bill will be sent to me rather than drafted from my account.

Although I was on the phone with the head office, I didn't report what that person did to me about the Internet, I'm not the type to get someone fired. Not for her, but for her family to go without in the state of the job market, they shouldn't suffer because she is a vengeful person. No, I'm leaving it to myself to let her know "face to face" what I think of how she misused her position. Believe me when I say, this will happen when I go to turn in their equipment on Monday.

Moving Frustrations-2

Sometimes when we are pushed into a frustrating situation, logic goes out the door. It tends to make us think irrationally, instead of a calm calculating manner. It's like a dog chasing it's tail, until the dog realizes it's getting no where, some dogs do, and some don't.

OK, now I needed to get service for Internet and phone, set up in Florida. This was going to be a one, two, three step program. Yeah, right!

I get on the Internet, try to locate the local phone company in the area we are moving to. Too many choices, like too many cloths in a closet. Which company to pick? Which one works in which area? Which one offers the best start up deal? Which one has a location close to you?

Finally find a site, "Moving Utilities" which allows me to enter my new zip code to find out which one offers the best deal. Not only that, but you can chat with a live operator for help. Wow, this is great.

I found Vonage was the one with the cheapest way to go. "Could I get a conformation to print out? I will need that as proof that I'm moving out of town, so I don't get charged for early disconnect here in SC. I will need that no later than Monday."
"It takes one to three business days to get approved, then we will email you the conformation."
Hmm, lets see, It's Tuesday, that should be enough time. "I'll take the Vonage start up Internet and local phone service."
"Just fill out the form on the next page and I will be here if you need assistance."
"Thank you, I'll be right back." I fill out the forms, one page at a time, asking questions along the way. She was very helpful, and explained that once you apply you can come back and check the status on your order by logging in.

So, after I'm done, I proceed to the Vonage site. While reading it, I noticed it had Vonage through Verizon. My mind starts working, if this is true, there is a Verizon store not far from me here, I can have them pull up my order and get a conformation printout. I will call them in the morning. With that in mind, I'm thinking, all is in line.

The next morning I call Verizon here, "Is Vonage phone and cable service through Verizon?" I ask the man that answered. "No, it's not." "OK, thank you." Now I'm thinking maybe I misread the whole thing. After getting off the phone, I proceed on line to their site. That alone was enough to make me turn to my on line games. You have to register, and fill out forms again.


On Thursday, I recieve my notice of acceptance in an email, and low and behold, my service provider is...Verizon! At this point, I really don't care who it's through as long as I get my proof!

In order to get the conformation of service I had to log back into the "Moving Utilities" site, which I did, and everything was in order. BUT, no matter what I did or tried to do, I could not print it out! I even ran a printing test to make sure all was in order with my system. No problems here. So, I call their 1-800 number, but couldn't get through to a person!

I get back on line, and try the "live Chat", where I get this person, Samantha, who must be eating her lunch or something because it took forever for her to answer me. At one point I asked if she was the only one there because she's not responding to my questions.


"Oh god, this person hates her job, it must be, because she's not doing it very well!" So, I ask if she can send me what I needed directly to my email without me having to log onto this site, I should be able to print it out. No, I have to go through the site, "check your settings to make sure everything is working correctly." Dah, I have done that, I'm not an total idiot. "Excuse me, but there is nothing wrong with my computer or printer, I have checked and double checked, yours is an unprintable page!" Her response,(after another five minute wait) "there's nothing I can do about that", is there anything else I can help you with?" (Yes, you can shove your site and your attitude up your ass!) "No, I will try something else." (This was after she wouldn't put a surperviser on with me, and informed me that if I called the company service request line direct, I wouldn't get the same deal.)


I tried to cut and paste, copy and paste the info. into a different file on my computer, but nothing I did worked! OK, OK, don't panic, I'll call Verizon through the service number that's with my conformation. When I get them on the phone, I had to give my new phone number assigned to me, then I proceed to let her know what my problem was.

Moving Frustrations-1

Went to HTC (our local phone/cable) Co. a few days ago to give them a shut off date, due to moving out of state. So, I'm explaining to the woman that I'm moving to Florida with my sister, and have to discontinue svc. The service was in my name and I had no intentions of getting any until I find my own place. After she explains to me about returning the wireless box etc, I give her my shut off date, the address to send the last bill, after going over the same words several times, the conversation ends like this:

"Are you getting service in Florida?" she asks.
"No, my sister found her a place, I'll find my own when I get there."
"You will be charged one hundred dollars for early disconnect."
"Why?, I was told if I was moving out of state, there would be no problems, is there's gotta be another way, I can do this without a penalty?"
"If you have a lease."
"I told you, I'm moving with my sister, it's her place, I'm not on her lease, and I'M NOT PAYING A HUNDRED DOLLARS, THIS IS A BUNCH OF CRAP!" By this time, my voice is several octaves higher with frustration. "I can't afford that, I'm on a limited income and I'm not paying the damn penalty, listen, this isn't directed at you, it's directed at the whole situation."
As I'm walking out the door, my voice is echoing back at her, "I'm not paying that damn thing."


When I got home, I told my sister, that I will have to have the cable and phone turned on in her new place to keep from being charged the early disconnect fee, which was something I really didn't want to do. But I need paper proof of moving so not to be charged that extra hundred dollars.

A few hours later, my sister nor myself were able to get on line. She called the technician's help line, they get her to do several things, but nothing works. This went on for four hours. Nothing worked. Finally I get on the phone and ask to speak with a supervisor.

"I want to speak with a supervisor."
"What seems to be the problem?" she asks.
"It seems strange, that I have a confrontation with someone at HTC, and no one can get my Internet working when nothing has changed here. The phone is working with a lot of static in it and according to your techs, no one else is having that problem. This has been going on for over five hours, now I just want it fixed!
"I can see where you think this was done, but no one is allowed to do that, they could lose their job", was her response to me.
"Well, that may be, but it has been done."
"I'll connect you to a tech".
"That hasn't helped all afternoon, but go ahead."

She puts the tech on and he starts the same crap about getting on the computer and I interrupt him, "We have done the same thing all afternoon, nothing works, so it's on your end".
"Let me take a look", is his reply. Within less then five minutes, our Internet is working, and he comes out with some lame excuse about the pass word not being correct! What bull crap!

"If it looks like a duck, waddles like a duck and quacks like a duck," it's a duck!

I'm hoping that Biatch is there when I return their equipment, because I have a few, calm, departing choice words for her!

It's Break Time

It's packing break time. Got a lot done today, but had to get some more boxes and tape.
The traffic was thick with people that have come down to the beach for the fourth of July weekend.

This condo reminds me of "Octa-mom", the more I pack, the more this condo gives birth to new things.

The rest will have to wait until tomorrow.

So Sad, Too Bad

Micheal Jackson, past away yesterday. I used to love his voice, music and performances, until it came out that he was a pedophile. Even when the changes in his physical appearances came about, I didn't think much about it.

But, come on people, a pedophile needs to rot in hell! If he truly was one, I hope he does!


The problem here, is, we look up to celebrities, enjoy what their craft offers, put them on a pedestal, then, we find out personal things about them. "The good, the bad and the ugly." Unfortunately, some of the "ugly" is not acceptable! Murder, pedophilia, racial slurs, physical abuse is not only unacceptable, but it's against the laws of our land and nature! Therefore, should not be acceptable in those that we celebrate or look up to as roll models. But, that's just me!

Moving Is A Headache

Moving headache! Ouch!! Yes, it's that time again. This time, it's across states. Yep, Florida, here we come. "Out of the frying pan, into the fire."

It wouldn't be too bad, if I was moving alone. My stuff can fit into a twelve foot truck. Not my sisters. The condo is loaded.

I used to look forward to moving into a new "adventure", not any more.

My sister has always wanted to move to Florida and after fifteen years of living in Myrtle Beach, she's finally grabbing the bit, and doing it. Trying to find an affordable truck, driver, truck packers, getting the nerve to give a two week notice at work, and calling the landlady to give a thirty day notice and picking a definite date, has been a headache for her.

I'm happy to say, most of it is done.

She did go down to Florida to find a place, she was really torn between two units, but took the one with the least rent, and needs some "fixing". This is going to be a two step process for me, I still have to look for a place to live, which means, packing our stuff separately. Then having my stuff in piled up in my room until that day, and getting a truck to move it all. YUK, and double yuk. When I was younger, this was no big deal, but oh my, I'm just too old for this!! However, now that the time is near, I'm ready to get this done and over with! Yes, It's a headache! Hopefully this will be my last move.

What Kind Of Bug Is This?

Found this strange looking bug on the patio.

First we tried to make it go away by spraying it

with the water hose. It must of liked it, because

it wouldn't go any where.

Had sis put it in a container, that's when I took it's

picture.

It seemed as curious as I was. Also very calm. I did let it go after leaving the back yard.

In No Rush To Get Up

"Hey Tuffy, it's time to wake up"

"Well Mom, I think I'll stay in bed for

a while".

He's going on eighteen years old the 24th of this month. Guess he earned the right to stay in bed if he wants to.

Post note: On the twenty fourth, I sang "Happy Birthday" to him and gave him a chew bone along with a few extra treats. I think he really knew it was a special day for him, at least that's what I choose to beleive, but, that's just me.

Black Face Squirrel

My sister captured this squirrel

just chilling. This was the first time

I have ever seen one with a black

face.

Veggies Are Coming In

Just when I thought my garden was doing well, I had to make some changes. It seems the pots my veggie plants were in turned out to be too small.

I had to transplant them into five gallon pails and make holes around them for the water to escape, should there be too much.

I'm proud to say, this has worked out great, my veggies are growing.

Things That Are Rubbing My Nerves Raw

I'm sure, am not the only one that feels like this, but am so tired of having to "press 1" for English. I really don't remember going to sleep and waking up in a foreign country.

There is no need to press anything for English, unless you are contacting a company that isn't here in America.

Tired of hearing the "boo-hoo" stories of Illegal families being deported. "They are law abiding people." To me the word "illegal" means against the law! We go to court and then jail when arrested for doing "illegal" things, that is the law of the land in America. Yes, this country was built and grown with foreigners, but they did it the legal way. Then to top it off, "illegals" expect and demand "rights"! The sad thing is they can get help faster than any American Citizen. I know and understand the need and want for a better life, but come on, how about doing it the illegal way! I for one, do not feel sorry for the families that are torn apart because of deportation. Illegal means Illegal, which means it's against the law!

Am tired of hearing about how "inhumane" the death penalty is. Just how "humane" was the torture, rape, strangulation, shooting, stabbing of another child or adult? I'm not a religious person, but what happened for an "eye for an eye"? There are way too many people getting away with murder with just a "slap on the hand" sentences. To top off the "insult to injury", the murderers demand their rights! What kind of rights did their victims get?
But, that's just me.

Update on Veggie Plants

Veggie Plants are doing fine.

It's Snack Time

"Oh goody... golfer's are here, that means it's snack time... yum!"

These pictures were taken at the Dunes Golf Course, by my sister.

Ziploc Omelet-This works

My sister tried this-it works! Thanks Rhonda.
This is so cool! How do people come up with these clever ideas?

ZIPLOC OMELET (This works great !!! Good for when all your family is together. The best part is that no one has to wait for their special omelet !!!)

Have guests write their name on a quart-size Ziploc freezer bag with permanent marker.

Crack 2 eggs (large or extra-large) into the bag (not more than 2) then shake to combine them.

Put out a variety of ingredients such as: cheeses, ham, onion, green pepper, tomato, hash browns, salsa, etc.

Each guest adds prepared ingredients of choice to their bag and shake. Make sure to get the air out of the bag and zip it up.

Place the bags into rolling, boiling water for exactly 13 minutes [we did 15 minutes]. You can usually cook 6-8 omelets in a large pot....

For more, make another pot of boiling water.

Open the bags and the omelet will roll out easily.. Be prepared for everyone to be amazed. Nice to serve with fresh fruit and coffee cake; everyone gets involved in the process and a great conversation piece.Imagine having these ready the night before, and putting the bag in boiling water while you get ready. And in 15 minutes, you've got a nice omelette for a quick breakfast!!!

5 Minute Chocolate Mug Cake-This works!

5 MINUTE CHOCOLATE MUG CAKE-received this in an email-Thanks Rhonda. You can also use cake mix- 10 tablespoons of mix to same amount of liquids.

4 tablespoons flour
4 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons cocoa
1 egg
3 tablespoons milk
3 tablespoons oil
3 tablespoons chocolate chips (optional)
A small splash of vanilla extract
1 large coffee mug (MicroSafe)
Add dry ingredients to mug, and mix well.
Add the egg and mix thoroughly. Pour in the milk and oil and mix well..
Add the chocolate chips (if using) and vanilla extract, and mix again.
Put your mug in the microwave and cook for 3 minutes at 1000 watts. The cake will rise over the top of the mug, but don't be alarmed! Allow to cool a little, and tip out onto a plate if desired.EAT ! (this can serve 2 if you want to feel slightly more virtuous).

And Justice Is Served!

A while ago, I wrote about the problem my sister was having with, "U-Save Car Rentals". They charged her bank account for damage (she did not do!) to the car she rented. After communication with the corporate office, she was having a hard time getting any satisfaction.
Armed with her proof she went to an attorney, who, in turn, sent them a letter.
My sister received a copy of that letter, which was extremely impressive! It was more like what would happen should they have to go to court. " Exhibit A, B, C, etc." Guess they thought my sister would just go away and let them keep her money. You have to stand up for your rights and fight with words and action.
Then my sister received an email from corporate, stating, "Subrogation Management Team is pleased to inform you we have closed this claim as a gesture of good will. We apologize for any inconvenience you may have experienced." Sounds like she was getting her money back, right? When she called them to ask, "Does this mean I'm getting my money back?" The voice on the other end replies, "no, they just closed the case here and you'll have to deal with it there".
That didn't sound right, and she didn't drop the matter either!
After sending them an irate email, she still didn't get the courtesy of a reply, but this morning, her money was returned to her account by them! Yes, justice was served and how sweet it was!
This is one company my sister will never do business with again.

A Safe Distance From...2

This picture was sent to me by my sister from her job, this morning. (Friday and Saturday, the winds and the smoke wasn't noticable at her job).

However, with the change of the winds, smoke as thick as smog, making it hard to see as she drives the beverage cart around the course.

A Safe Distance From...

"S.C. fire destroys nearly 70 homes in Myrtle Beach area
Story Highlights
Wildfire destroys thousands of acres in Horry County, South Carolina
Nearly 2,500 people ordered to evacuate; no injuries have been reported
Governor declares state of emergency in coastal South Carolina county
Area is home to popular tourist spots, including Myrtle Beach".

Yes, I live here in Myrtle Beach, yes, I can see the smoke in the distance, and no, I'm not near the fires. Nor am I the type that rushes to see a disaster. I stay away, but that's just me. However, my sister works across the street from the "Grand Dunes", in "The Dunes". Hope she doesn't get choked up from the smoke. She will tell me about it when she gets home from work.
Hope they stump it completely out today, it's still not contained.
My heart goes out to anyone that has lost their home with all their possessions. That has to be too hard to handle. Thank goodness, no one has died from this! That is the only saving grace of this tragedy.

They Really Come In Threes. Don't they?

It seems when something goes wrong, it comes in threes. First the car rental crap,which by the way, is still on going, they (corporate) are "investigating" the matter.

Then I opened a piece of mail while cleaning around my computer, which was dated back in February. The letter was from my bank stating that my debit card may have been compromised. So, I proceed to check my account, (which I don't do, other than the balance or if I'm looking for a particular item that has gone through). Come to find out, an on line company, which I never used their services, was taking out 19.95 a month, now are you ready for this?, since December!


I called the company, they asked for my account info., which was my email address. When I gave it to her, she was silent, then said, "you don't have an account with us". That is when I exploded, "yes, I know, that's why I'm calling! For someone that doesn't have an account with you, why are you taking money out of my account! I demanded to speak with a supervisor, who, thank goodness, said it would be returned in two business days. Then had to deal with the bank, and get a new debit card. Now for number three.


We went to Wally World to purchase some more plants, for her flower bed. She put them in yesterday. Ninety dollars later, it was blooming with color, from the new plants and fresh soil.

Today, they pressure washed our building. The first thing I asked the young men doing the work, was about our flower beds. (I had placed all the potted ones back into the house). I was assured that the flowers will hosed down, then they will lay plastic over them. Everything will be alright. So, sis and I headed out for the day.

When we got back, the plastic was on the plants and they didn't do our back yard yet. The sun was directly on the plastic, making it a hot bed. They finally came into the yard, about an hour later. By then it became nap time for me. When I woke up, I decided to return the plants back outside.

When I stepped over to look at sis' flower bed, I noticed the tops of the plants, where the plastic touch, were brown! When I called her to come check it out, she said it was the plastic, "they probably put it on the wrong side, and it was too hot for them to leave it on for such a long time".

Poor plants were in shock or are suffering from chemical burn. The owner of the company came by to look at them, his response, "maybe they put the plastic on the wrong side, and or didn't rinse the plastic off first. And with the sun being so hot today...etc", the same thing sis said. (I had hosed off the plants with water, off before he came). He then, proceeded to hose the plants off. Thank goodness he was very nice about it, said he'll check back to see how they do, and would be happy to replace them, if they don't improve. They really come in threes, don't they?

Triggered Memories

Funny how when reading someones blog, it can trigger memories, that as a blogger, one feels compelled to share. I follow "An Explorer's View of Life". His post today brought back so many memories. He's from Canada, where they have a "Go Train", which looks like the New York version of the Ell trains. It's their subway system above ground.
In the mornings I used to get on the Ell, the same people always on the platform, and no one ever saying "Good morning" or even a nod of recognition of each other. By the time we get to the end of the line and go down stairs to the subway, which I began to think of as the "dungeon", the craziness really takes over. You get so used to the madness, one really doesn't think about it. Your body, along with your mind goes on auto pilot.
Riding the subway system was my way of life. I never thought a whole lot about it until, one day it was like something snapped me awake, as I was heading to work. I started looking at the people around me, and realized I had seen them everyday I went to work.
As the train was nearing the end of the line, it had gotten so crowed, people were standing close, breathing in each others face. Morning breath mixed with the sent of garlic, making me want to up chuck on an empty stomach, and strangers too close for comfort, touching and bumping into you, Yuk!
Then down stairs to the "dungeon", to continue on my journey, which would take me to other trains. Local, express, the A or D train.
Instead of my usual rushing to make my connection, I inched myself away from the fast paced shoving, pushing and bustling of the people and found myself against a wall, just watching in amazement, as though it was the first time I was seeing my surroundings. I compared the scene to a "cattle drive" I have seen on a television western.
All day at work, I had a hard time shaking the images of my morning commute. Yet, at the end of the day, when I was going home, I was so very aware of everything around me. I watched a short elderly woman, a brown shopping bag hanging on each arm, stretched out, pushing her way through the crowd, trying to get off at her stop. "Oh my God, I don't want that to me when I get older", I'm saying to myself.
It's not that I haven't seen craziness in the subways, like men urinating down there, drunks, homeless people and sickos. I was always aware and stayed clear of them. It was just the whole thing in general that I truly wasn't aware of. The thought of myself being part of the "cattle" was so disturbing to me, I started making plans to leave New York.

"Hey You"

It was about six thirty this morning, when I was awoken by the squawking of Nettie the duck, demanding their food. Usually they don't come until the afternoon. This also happened the other morning, but, I was unable to get out of bed at that time. (I've had a spell of Meniere's Disease, symptoms these past couple of days. This episode wasn't as long or bad as others I have had. It's an inner ear problem that makes me feel drunk without the booze, accompanied with nausea. This has been the mildest attack I have had. I finally feel decent this morning!)

I wonder what Lenny "n" Nettie have to do on these early days. Who knows? Maybe an evening of social engagements they can't escape from unnoticed. They weren't here last night. Guess I'll just have to put food out before I go to bed. Six thirty is too early for me, unless I'm going fishing or on a trip!

"Hey you, wake up, we're hungry!", is not something I want to hear through the summer! Bad enough, my Tuffy, wakes me up every morning, he at least lets me sleep till something after seven. Yeah, I know, I'm lazy, but after all these years of working, I feel, I earned that that right.

And The Garden Grows

"Mary, Mary, quite contrary, how does your garden grow?" With weed and feed, and many seeds, that's all I need to know. LOL (silly!)The Azalea's are blooming and soon my sister's little flower garden will be filled with a mixture of beautiful colors. I can't wait.

This past Friday, I put my plants outside, but by the afternoon, the winds got so strong, I had to bring them back in the house. Saturday, I put them back outside, but put plastic around the stand to protect them.

The top shelve has the squash plant on the left, and the cucumber on the right. Funny how protective I feel towards them. Yes, I'm one of those people that talk to my plants.

My tomato plants are still inside, coming along great.

U-Save Car Rental Headache

My sister rented a car

for a trip out of town. She was suppose to pick it up the night before she was due to leave. Instead, she worked late and had to do it the morning of her trip. Needless to say, she was running behind schedule.

When she picked up the car, she was in a rush, and signed off on the car. Before she left the terminal, she saw the true condition of it.

Now, look at these pictures, one can tell by them, this did not happen within minutes of picking it up. Also, by the look of it, there is no way, the rental company could not have known about it, or did not collect on this car before.

On her way home, she called the car rental place, told them about the tail lights and marks on the bumper, and that there wasn't an attendant to be found anywhere. (Thank goodness, cell phone companies have records of times and dates of calls made. This comes in handy should someone have to go to court.) We live approximately ten minutes away from the air port.

I took pictures of the damage, on my cell phone, then sent them, along with a note, to the U-Save car rental customer service, on computer, while my sister got on her way. They did respond, with a "hope this matter is settled to your satisfaction" email. Thinking, everything is taken care of, I still kept all the information on my computer, just in case.

The car was returned on the second of April. She waited in line with everyone else for the rental company to open for business.

On the fifth of April, she is checking her bank statement, U-Save, charged her account five hundred dollars! They never called her about it, just took it! What nerve! If she didn't catch it at that time, her checks could have bounce.

The manager informed her, on Monday, that he has to "research" it and also accused her of just leaving the car, without checking out, to which she told him that wasn't true and explained about waiting in line with everyone else. She tried talking to him this morning, but wouldn't get on the phone with her, instead told the girl to tell her, "he's waiting on corporate to get in touch with him".

My sister called the corporate office, and they didn't have all the information and wanted her to fax everything to them. Nine dollars later, corporate received all pictures and communication they asked for. Now, it's a "wait and see" game. But, they did tell her they were going to check into it right away. We'll see.

Introducing, Lenny and Nettie

Introducing, Lenny and Nettie. Along with spring time bringing flowers, birds and unsteady weather, it brings back the Mallards, of which these two come to our front door for their daily picnics. They keep this place a secret and don't blab to their friends about the local cuisine. They have been coming here for almost two weeks now. Now, they have started getting vocal about their food.

As my sister takes this picture. Lenny is keeping a watchful eye on her.

We get a lot of Ducks, Canadian Geese and Seagulls here. We don't feed them all. Last year, there was a duck that made her nest next to the community pool, on a pile of rocks. There was no shade or bush for her protection from the heat. We would give her water, and she drank it thankfully. I picked some straw out of the landscaping around the pool, and laid it beside her. We watched in fascination as she built a nest around her. There were other adults besides us, that kept an eye out for her and gave her drinking water, but someone was taking her eggs. She started out with six eggs and in the end only had one left. Her baby was so cute, and even took a swim in the pool.

They say, Mallards always return to the place they were born, I wonder?

We also had a wild rabbit that used to come into our back yard, so we got it some rabbit food, and worried about it when it didn't show up. We named her, Bun-Bun. She loved apples, the green ones were her favorite. It has been a almost two months since we have seen her. In my mind, she got married and moved away, but that's just me.

OMG, Enough Is Enough!

I just got on to check my email, when my eyes glanced at the CNN, news lines on my Google Home page.
My stomach is churning after reading what it had to say. " 5 children found slain in home"..
My god, what the hell is going on today? Yes, I know there have been killings, greed, molestations, etc ever since the birth of man kind. But, not as bad as it is today! That is to say, in my life time, that I have seen or heard of.
Parents killing their children, people killing strangers just to get to one particular person or to get their name in headline news, children killing their parents, classmates and each other! Taking one's child to rob a store!Not to mention killings of groups of people because they don't believe in the same religious teachings. (that has been going on forever! They need to stop teaching their children hatred in the name of their religious beliefs)
One doesn't know if when they leave their homes for work, shopping or just going out, if they will return home.
Has it come to the time when we need metal detectors in our schools, hospitals, churches, court houses, police stations and stores, besides our airports? What about cameras everywhere? What is it going to take to stop this useless violence?
Criminals being let out of jail for crimes against man kind, and not paying the full punishment that they deserve.
Bleeding hearts of Americans, yelling and picketing to stop someone from being put to death on death row, that really deserves it. Releasing hard core criminals back onto unsuspecting citizens. And then, what a surprise when they commit the same crime, dah.
Please don't get me wrong, I love my country. There is no place else on earth I would rather be, but I don't have to agree with everything here either, that's what makes it so great. I have the right of freedom of speech, as an American. So, here's mine. Take it, leave it, agree or disagree. Our judicial system is in dire need of change. More rights for the victims, less for the criminals. "An eye for an eye".
Why are we crying about prisons "overload?" Why are we housing and feedings murderers? I'm talking about the ones, where there is absolute proof. Bodies and body parts, videos, criminals being interviewed, saying yes they did it, but they don't want to die. Did their victims want to die? NO! So, why should they be allowed to live? They found "God". Yeah, right! If a rabid animal is on the street, killing, what do we do? We kill them. A killer is no different. I'm talking about the ones that plan it. Stalk their victims, the ones that show the police "where the bodies are", hard core murderers.
There are a lot of good people out there, and yes we do get to hear about some them, but it seems like everyday now, we are hearing about more and more senseless killings. If I were "God", I would be so tired of all the, inhumanity towards man that is happening today! There are things I would forgive, but also things I would definitely not forgive. I would, stop it before it began, or hand out the correct justice, not vengeance, JUSTICE!
I know all about humans being given "free will", etc. But, when "free will" comes to the point of, enough is enough. It's time! But that's just me.

Conclusion to Charlie, The Iguana

The Iguana's owner came and got her after Jennifer had "Charlie", for about ten to twelve days. It seems like she was pregnant. The questions that run through my mind, "Were they breeding her for profit?, Why would they let her out?" I asked my sister this, but she doesn't know. It seems, the owners knew who had her, but didn't come after her until three days after they found out where she was.

My sister told me last night, " The Iguana had twenty seven or twenty eight babies. Then she got out again, got hit by a car and died. Jennifer seems to think Charlie was trying to get back to her house, when that happened. The owner promised Jennifer one of the babies."

If it was me, I would do some investigating. See just what these people are doing, and what's going to happen to all those babies. If this is going on in your neighborhood, with pets or children, and you see something isn't right, you should speak up, ask questions. Help protect those that can't.

I just don't understand, how anyone can claim a pet or a child that you can't protect and keep safe in your home. What a sad ending to this story.

Pass The Toothpicks, Please

Rainy dreary days and depression always gets me down. Yep, I'm one of those people that can't keep her brain or eyes open when it's raining.
My brain turns to mush and my eyelids get so heavy, one would think I was drugged.
Thunderstorms? Forget it! Someone, I think it's mother nature, has slipped me tranquilizers through the ions or eons floating in the air.
I want to bake a chicken today, don't want it to burn, guess I can set my alarm for an hour..yep, that's what I'll do.
Would someone please pass me the toothpicks, so I can prop my eyelids open until I get everything ready, please?

Roadtrashtravels-Email

My friend Rhonda, is going to start her blogging soon. (right, Rhonda?) She has told me so many interesting stories, like a homeless man, her and her son helped or how she was chasing after a truck with an old sleigh in it, or how she acquired another dog, etc. Most of them filled with humor, and some with frustration and sadness.
I received this email from her, I would like to share, maybe, when her nerves calm down, she will start writing, I hope this helps her get started.

Sorry I haven't written anything, but Monday a guy that my son knew, fell from 2 stories @ the job site.
When I drove him to work this morning, as we were leaving a fire truck came flying past us going into the plant. I told my son before we got to the plant, there is always steam coming from the stacks. He said that there must be something wrong.
Before I could get half way back to the hotel, he called me, said I needed to come back and get him, that a guy had gotten killed!
They closed the plant, news people were every where. The guy that got killed was a xray tech. They xray the pipes to check for cracks. The steam is so strong that it will burst, so they have to constantly xray them. I am talking about the big round pipes about 100 ft. off the ground, you can see for miles before you get to a power plant. Anyway he got in this basket, that hangs from a cable, I guess it broke and dropped him, I am not for sure.
We haven't heard for sure. But this is the 2nd person in two months be killed at this plant. Very dangerous!
Anthony and I are going to site see, look for another house or apt. or camper. Just spend the day out.. I will write but a little bummed out today. Am blessed to get to spend the day together...love Rhonda

My "Chair" Bed

This is my "chair" bed. It is very comfortable and helpful for me, suffering from acid reflux.
Years ago I went to a doctor, who told me to put a chair under my mattress to sleep in a high position. It didn't work for me, I kept sliding down the bed. I couldn't afford one of those movable beds nor did I have insurance to cover a hospital bed. Sleeping in a recliner didn't help my back either, although that's what I did for years.
So, my solution was this: The base of my bed is a wide recliner, backed against a wall at the slant that I needed and wanted. I have one of those plastic storage boxes under the foot rest, to keep it up. Then an ottoman against the end of it. I put a blanket and a spread on top of the whole thing, especially at the top so the chair won't mark the wall. I purchased one of those foam mattress padding's (twin size) from Wal Mart. The foam doesn't go all the way to the end, but that really doesn't matter. I put a sheet on top of that. I purchased pillows at Wal Mart a couple at a time, and lined the whole bed with pillows all the way down the end. Then my top sheet and blanket.
I went to Goodwill and purchased the spread and pillow shames for less than twenty dollars. When I go to sleep at night, I put one pillow behind my back, two on the very top to cradle my neck and head. It is very comfortable and affordable, but most important, it feels like a bed to me.
If this helps just one person, I have done what I have set out to do with this post.
Yes, I take meds for my reflux and watch what I eat. I have also purchased Aloe Vera Gel from the health food store, not the best tasting stuff, but it works. But, that's just me.

Topsy Turvy Planter-FYI

I looked up one of the sites and here is an example of one along with information on it.

The Upside Down Tomato Planter
The Topsy Turvy™ Tomato Planter works in a simple yet ingenious way. As the sun warms the plant like a greenhouse, the root system explodes and thrives inside the planter. Because the Topsy Turvy™ is upside down, water and nutrients pour directly from the root to the fruit, giving you up to 30 pounds of deliciously ripe tomatoes per plant!

This makes my mouth water for home grown tomatoes. Doing research I see that Lowes, Target have them also. Wow doesn't that look great.

Use the Topsy Turvy™ to grow:
Tomatoes
Cucumbers
Peppers
Zucchini
Homegrown herbs
Topsy Turvy™ eliminates:
Ground fungus
Harmful bacteria
Cutworm damage
Use of pesticides
Digging and weeding
Backbreaking work
With Topsy Turvy™ you can enjoy homegrown tomatoes any time!

Time To Plant

My mouth has been watering for some home grown tomatoes, while my mind has been toying with planting some veggies, ever since I saw the advertisement for the "Topsy Turvy Upside-Down Planter".

"Should I? Maybe?" Battling between "yes, I should", and the "I better wait" in my mind. The "yes" won out. We plan on moving, but not until June or July. So, that gives me enough time to get some fresh veggies, right? Right!




Here are my picks, two tomato plants, one squash plant, one "burpless" cucumbers plant, basil and oregano (the herbs were requested by sis). Now I have to find where I have hidden my "green thumbs".

They Are "Both" Wrong

"Communication" is the key word. I'm watching CNN this morning, the news media is getting everyone up in arms over the officers handling of the person that wouldn't stop for the police lights or sirens. He was the "bad guy". Really?


Here's an officer doing his job, a car runs through a traffic light, he turns his siren/lights on, the driver doesn't stop. By now, the officer's adrenalin is running high, he has no idea what he's dealing with. All he knows for sure, is this driver isn't pulling over!

All the man had to do, was pull over the first time, explain about the hospital calling about his mother or was mother in law dying, and the officer would have probably given him an escort to the hospital.

If you won't stop for the law, most likely, one could also cause an accident! Then what?

(That once happened to me, I was sick, my sister and husband was rushing me to the hospital, got stopped, explained the situation, he lead us to the hospital.)


"But he wouldn't let him go in once they got there, even after a nurse came down to explain the situation. He took fifteen minutes away from him being able to see her before she passed, and he didn't get to say his last goodbyes" they are saying. Should the officer had handled it differently? Yes, most definitely. However, with police getting shot just stopping people, crime on the rise, etc. I can understand the anger he felt.

My vote, they were both wrong! The officer wasn't pulling him over for no reason to begin with. Their job is to "protect" and "serve", and that can't happen without mutual respect, instead of running from them, like a common criminal. But, that's just me.

The Drama Continues

"Dr. Phil is going to be good today", my sister is telling me as I pass her room. "Why?" I ask.
"He has that Octoperson on today"
"He had her on yesterday", I reply
"Yeah, but today is going to be good"

Shame on you Dr. Phil, who has the "Octocrap" on for two days. Ratings? Yes, that's what counts..Let's drag this out.

This "Octowacko" needs a publicist? How long is this drama going to go on?
Time to change the channel, click! I would rather watch the Beverly Hillbillies.

Riding Down Memory Lane

David & Sandra came by with their car-1960 Thunderbird-Me sitting in car

waiting for the take off, down memory lane.

I remember years ago, being in a car like this, listening to Rock&Roll, the

driver pulling over, then we would get out to dance to a rocking song! Oh

yeah, I remember it well, the scene playing in my mind as David drives us

out of our complex onto Hwy 17, radio only had AM stations, but they were rocking. How sweet that was! Oh, yes, the same radio is in it. He is the third owner of this beauty. (sis needs to change date on her camera-these were taken Monday)