New Year's Eve

Here we all at the end of another year...2009. What a year we have had. God has blessed us and continues to meet all our needs. I will fill you in on a few highlights...

January brought good snow and good times. Erik enjoyed his snowmobile a lot this past winter and kept busy riding those drifts.

February our semi-pup was rolled, it was a big mess, one that could be seen for months on East Michigan Avenue, but thankfully no one was hurt. Doug and I spent seven days in Palm Springs, CA. Always a good time.

March had ski trips for the kids with the Youth Group, Horse Bowl Competitions, 4-H beef weigh-in, and it seems like meetings, every other day.

April started with drivers ed., auctions, meetings, birthday's, and the start to planting season.

May we continued with planting, planted our raised beds, meetings as usual, and the start of horse shows.

June continued with horse shows nearly every weekend, birthday's, open houses for friends, V.B.S. (b.t.w...I love cotton candy!), and the softball season began (this would be Doug and I on a non-competative church league...if there is such a thing).

July came in with a bang, Erik cruised downtown in his 1980 F250 (which is for sale), church camp for the kids, Katie on her first mission trip, and finally a few days at South Haven.

August...FAIR...need I say more. Actually I should. It was a productive week, with its ups and downs (hitting the dirt after being thrown from the horse down, being a bobble head in a combine down, having a horse try to colic all week down) the ups were good too though. Winning showmanship and making it in the show of champions, placing well with the steers in mkt. class, winning 3rd overall in the combine demo derby (the mom!). Additionally we had Golf Outings, weddings, and picnics this month.

September we had visits from family, put up veggies for winter, and started the harvest season.

October brought more birthday's, bonfires, American Quarter Horse Congress with horse bowl, train trip to Mayo clinic, and the harvest continued.

November saw long days of harvest that seemed like it may never end, fundraiser dances, productions at local community theatre, stitches (Doug's head...of course this happen 95' up) Thanksgiving with South Carolina friends, shopping with friends, and our first real Christmas tree in a long time.

December had a Christmas Open House (lots of fun...but a lot of work!), the whole family was in our Church's Christmas Production, welcomed new friends in for gatherings, butchered our beef for the year, finished harvest, celebrated one more birthday and had some down days to reflect on the year.

I have not been very good as of late in updating my blog. I hope to try to update at least 2x a week during 2010. I guess that would be resolution, right?

Wishing you all hope, peace and prosperity and good health in the New Year.

God Bless You All!

Merry Christmas

Hi all...I know I am a day early but I wanted to make sure and get this written. We have just returned home from the first Christmas. We always get together on Christmas eve. with Doug's immediate family. Usually near lunch time and fill up...not only on good food, but lots of gifts and fun too. We always break in time for those needing to head out to their own Christmas eve. evening events.

In the past week, we have made lots of goodies, butchered and processed a steer, and have dropped off lots of goodies to friends and neighbors. This morning Erik was our elf and delivered the last few items that needed to be taken out.

We will go this evening to our church's Christmas eve. program. We will be singing with the choir for two songs. Then will sit to hear the service. No dancing this time for those who know what that means...:)!! Should be a nice time.

When we return home we will open our Christmas eve gift that we always open. We always get the kids a new pair of pajama's each year for a picture in front of the Christmas tree.

Well...you are up to date with us...we do wish you ALL a Merry CHRISTmas.

~Be blessed dear friends and be safe.~

Mary did you know...

Isn't that an awesome song!! Most have children, raise them up as they should and can only hope and pray that God will guide them to find the perfect mate, and have an awesome life. I know Mary had a glimpse of what was to come...but how much do you think she really knew? As we don't know from day to day what life will hold...we need to live each day to the fullest.

I know it has been a while since I have updated...I will fill you in on what's new at Myers Farms.

Well Dec 7, we had a Christmas Walk tour through our home. Everything pulled together great, and we had a grand time.

The following Saturday we had some new friends we were blessed to have met this year come to our home with their children and we were able to spread some Christmas cheer. The kids played board games and some basketball. The little one watched a Christmas classic and hung out with the big kids. What a blessing it has been getting to know these three nice families!

December 13 & 14 was our Church's Christmas program. This year it was called Journey to the Manager. We were very involved this year. Meaning...Doug, Katie and I were in the choir. Erik, Doug and I did some dancing with the choreography and had a blast with that! Finally Doug had a duet with the director of the program. He did a great job and did well with a really fun song!

Yesterday we butchered a steer for our yearly meat supply. We share 1/2 with my brother from South Carolina. We get it ready and he and his wife come and help cut up and wrap. Always a fun time down in the basement doing this project. :)

We sent our kids off to their final day of co-op classes today in Jackson for the year. Erik stopped and picked up G. Geese so she could get some grocery and Christmas shopping done while they are in classes. Erik checks in with her between his classes. I think he hopes to get a meal for lunch out of his birthday mate as well...we will see.

We, hopefully, will finish up our measly 35 acres today. We got held up last time because the snow was coming down and sticking to the plant so intensely and the combine got froze up. Now that the weather has settled and our other events have been here and gone, we can get that last batch up and move on to the next project.

This weekend we will have our small group here for our Christmas dinner and white elephant gift exchange. I think I have a really nice wreath I may donate to give away for one of my gifts...we will see.

Well I think you have it. Since I am not very good anymore at updating, I feel as though I should write Merry Christmas. But I won't do it officially yet as I might get on a writing streak again should time allow!!

Be Blessed my dear friends and have a great day!!

Oh Come let us adore Him

With all that we have going on in our lives...it does take some time to stop and just adore not only Him, but the season and the reason. Today was one of those days.

We got up and got some things done in time to head off to church to sing in the second service. Came straight home to do some last minute preparations for the home owner walk through. Went back to church to attend Christmas musical practice at 3. We got done with Christmas musical and Church Choir practice in enough time to meet the rest of the families at the first family that are to be on the tour tomorrow. We started the walk through process...ending just near our house with light desserts at one of the coordinators of the tour getting home around 9:30. So...can you see how sitting and just adoring what we have and whom we have in our lives gets put on the back burner at times?

To elaborate on the tour I am talking about...our home is on a Christmas Candlelight Tour for our church. Approximately 50 people will come through our home tomorrow evening. They will walk through all levels to see the house and see how it is decorated. It has been a little stressful to get it all pulled together. Right now I am thankful for 25 watt bulbs and candles. Less dust, cobwebs, and lady beetles noticeable in that kind of light! :)

Tomorrow afternoon I will make a cinnamon roll tea ring that will be given away at the end of the tour. I just might make a small one for the other homeowners and the pastor of the church as well. We will see how my day goes.

Well...if you would like to take a note of advice, that I need a dose of as well...take time when you can and adore the One for whom this season represents...Christ the Lord!!!

Blessings to All~

Good Tidings

Hello all...I haven't been nearly as faithful as I had in the past at updating my posts and keeping you informed of all the happenings at Myers Farms.

Well here it goes...Today we are hauling corn out of our bins and storing them down at some others to make room so we can complete our harvest. Today the harvesting came to a halt because there is so much snow on the corn. Funny thing is, there is not even a dusting on our grass. Just north of us, they have gotten much more then here. But more room was needed anyway so it would have been slow going anyway.

We are trying to stay sane and get things together for the impending Candlelight Christmas Walk that is to happen here, Sunday and Monday evenings. Funny how you can look around and see more things to do even when you think you have completed a room.

Tomorrow morning we have a technical run through of the Christmas program we are in and we will have it again on Sunday at 3. Then we have regular choir. After that we will meet up with the other homeowners, tour those houses and have light refreshments at one of the co-chairs homes at the end. Monday I have to make some cinnamon rolls. We plan to give away a tea-ring to one person after the tour. Doug thought of that...but Angie is doing the work. ;) That is ok...hopefully all I will need to do is small things that day anyway. That is a friends birthday too, so maybe we can do lunch.

Yesterday we had a crazy day. We got up and going to really get cracking on the house with finish touches. But I found out a friend was going to Shipshewana. So...I basically invited myself to tag along cause there were some things I needed. Upon arriving home I found out my lights were in, in Kalamazoo. So after Doug got home, he and I trekked over there and met up with a store employee who was so gracious, because the store had closed. Then we came back to Battle Creek, went to Horrock's, the phone store and Meijer's and finally got back home around 10:30. So a really full day. But all the running got done so today is concentrated on taking care of the extras.

We do have an awesome painter here today to paint the entry to our basement. It has years of hand prints and such to cover up. So that is what is going on here. Along with Erik putting up new ceiling tiles in the basement and Katie doing homework.

Blessings to you all for a great and fun filled weekend.

To be Thankful...

When writing about what to be thankful for and for whom one needs to sit and ponder. So many blessings in my life with friends and family. For Thanksgiving we were thankful for Stan and Delano from South Carolina so that we had someone to share our dinner. We went rather non-traditional with steak instead of turkey. But, it was delicious!

Also, we are thankful for friends. Especially those who invite members of our family out for the crazy shopping day. The kids both had alot of fun. I worked on the house prepping for the Christmas Candlelight tour. Doug is trucking corn and making room in the bins for more. We probably have less than 5 good days of running to get the corn in. So that too is something to be thankful for.

Hope your Thanksgiving day was filled with memories old and new.

Blessings to you all!

One of those days...

Ever had one of those days when you get woken up really early...like 3 hours before you would like to because of an emergency? Then you almost get home from the first run and then there is another. You finally get back home. Climb into bed...and it seems like you just feel like you are able to drift back to sleep, and it's time you must get up again, because of commitments of the day. Then as you get up and going...things are going good, really good. Lunch in the crock-pot, productive things are happening in and around the house, you make your meeting and the results are good. You stop a minute and have a cup of tea with a friend...make it home with more good things happening. Then your day hits the wall...literally! You feel like you cannot go on because of events that happen. But your day must go on, because of, again commitments to your family and life. But that wall is hard and it hurts...really bad.

That is my day! Sorry for the story...but needed to write it.

Take care all!

We're Back!!!

Hi all...well...were we missed? Last week after my last post, we were hit hard with the bug. First Katie was hit then we all were to an extent. We had some miserable days around here. Doug even layed low a couple of days and stayed close to the house and just wandered out to the grain set up to make sure things were working. It is funny how people wondered if he just "had a cold." If you know him well enough, it takes more than that to keep him down. We all have a few lingering effects, but are on the mend.

Late last week we were able to go see a play put on by the Marshall Civic Players "A Christmas Carol." A family we know all participated in it and it was so nice to see all of them. Good friends joined us too, so it ended up being a great night.

We were supposed to host our small group last week, but with us having lingering effects of the bug we chose to host it at the church, so nothing could be spread.

Since then...we have had some productive days here. Some curtains have been made, appointments kept, and more of the usual day to day life with harvest time. To add to the fun, I use the term lightly, we have agreed to be part of a Christmas Walk for our church. That will consist of three or four groups of fifteen going through your house to see it and how you decorate it for Christmas. Well, to say the least, I am a tad bit stressed. Supposedly a person can shut off rooms and keep them from going through. But, take the basement as an example, Erik has his farm set down there. He would like people to see how he has it set up and he actually just made a new board and layout for it. He also is making more shelves for his extra equipment he isn't using on his current set-up.

So that is about it for now...I will spare you all more details. I may write more as time allows.

Be blessed my friends and be safe in your harvest.

Busy Monday

Happy Monday to you all. We had a crazy busy weekend, like I'm sure most of you have. Friday, I ran to Salvation Army in Battle Creek and dropped off a car full of stuff. Wow it was nice to get rid of those things, and hopefully they will be put to good use by others.

After getting back home, we pulled the house together and then I made homemade pizza early because of the night we had ahead of us. I no more than got it done and the first one in the oven when the Farrier arrived. This is the second time this one has been here, and to say the least I am impressed. He is professional, efficient, not too chatty, and he brings his dog. This dog is the most well mannered little thing, and she plays great with Zoe and tires her out while she is here. Which if you have met our Zoe...is a very good thing!

While I was out with the farrier, my friend Amy, Katie, and her friend Russell, headed into Marshall to set up for the fund raiser the Horse Bowl had planned. The 50-60 -70's dance. Well, I can honestly say I don't think this was the best choice for fund raisers. We had alot of snacks to sell from the get go...and we still had a lot around 9pm when we left. Only 7 horse bowl members, a few family members and maybe 10-15 additional people were in attendance. So I don't recommend this to others for a fundraiser.

Saturday we started running corn, we got a good start on it. I got to truck it home. Doug worked on cleaning up the extra combine. I will probably take the combine back a little later in the week.

Sunday was our usual plus more. Sunday morning was church. Then we came home put together a salad and went to the Myers' Thanksgiving dinner. Left there and dropped off gifts at a baby shower being held at church. Went to choreography practice for the Christmas program, had Christmas choir, regular choir, then small group.

I ended my night with a bit of a cough, that kept me up some of the night. Katie actually was brought home by friends and she is not good. She seems to have a nasty upper respiratory cough, and low grade fever, she has slept alot today. I hope we can get an immune boost and get over this quickly.

Here we are Monday morning, I went to town already for my regular meeting. This afternoon I have to take the horse up to the Horse Chiropractor and Erik has a CCAIS board meeting.

I will run for now, cause I want to figure out my dinner plans before we go our separate ways.

Stay healthy and safe all!!

Done with Beans!

So it is official...we are done harvesting soybeans for the year. We actually were done about 3 yesterday afternoon. Now we have to get things switched over to run corn. Today we have some errands to run so we probably won't start doing any corn till Saturday. (Of course it wouldn't have anything to do with an old saying about don't start things on a Friday, right?!?)

Tonight we are to attend a 50-60-70's dance put on by the Calhoun County Horse Bowl teams. We have no idea how this will turn out, but the person who heads up the group thinks this is the fund raiser we need. So...anyone who wants...Please come to the B.E. Henry Building in Marshall tonight for this dance. Dress up is optional. Snack type food and drinks will be there to buy by donation only. Cost is $5 for individual and $15 for a family. I happen to know a few families that could do really well with the family rate! :) Give us a call if you are needing any more details.

Before we go to decorate tonight, the farrier is coming, which is good cause Mr. Chip threw a shoe.

I have to make a run to Salvation army today to donate some goods. So I may stop at my favorite bakery, Continental, and have lunch and bring my husband a bite of carrot cake.

Hope you all have a fantastic day and fun filled weekend!

Be blessed!

Chilly November

Hi all...hope your days are filled with fulfilling work and some fun mixed in. We are just a day away from finishing up our beans. What a great feeling that will be. Then of course there is the corn.

I had Bible Study yesterday then a friend and I ran to Kalamazoo to do some errands. She had some returns, downtown, and we found the most wonderful place to eat lunch. It was a store with bunches of fresh salads and deli type items that would rival Whole Foods. The sandwich and salad we has was scrumptious. We then headed toward Portage to go to the Baby's-R-Us, to find a shower gift for a couple at church. They work with the youth group and are an awesome couple, so I picked up a little extra so Katie would have something just from her. It helped my friend had a 20% coupon so it was worth the extra time in going there. Next we went to a lighting store and I finally found my lights for the bonus room. You know before I kept looking but nothing was jumping. When these ones jumped so they are ordered and on their way. Finally we went to Sam's Club in Portage. Wow, talk about stuff, they have some fun different items then they have in Battle Creek, so that was a cool experience.

One the way home it was getting late, so of course I was worried about what I was fixing for dinner. When I called home and talked to Katie to see what she might pull out for me to put together. I was greeted with Mom, I knew you might be a while, so I made up a meatloaf and have baked potatoes and applesauce, is that ok. Uh...YES! How awesome. I hadn't even talked to her after she had gotten home from Jackson yesterday, so what a blessing that was.

Today I have to go forward big time with pulling together my basement and start thinking about Christmas decorations. Its a long story, but yes once I gather them all together, they will slowly start going up.

The kids have a 4-H council meeting tonight. Katie will be happy, Erik not so much.

Well that is all for now.

Have a blessed an awesome day all!

Good Times

Hello all...it is a good day here at Myers Farms. The kids are working diligently on their school work. Probably no combining will be going on here, because the sky is spitting rain. But, that is ok, we know the beans will get done and the corn isn't going anywhere.

Doug is working to move the dry beans out and taking them over to store at another location. It is a timely process, but something that must be done. He will probably be done within the hour then we are going to find light fixtures for the bonus room. I also have been putting off getting groceries, so we might pick up a few while we are out. I am planning a big Sam's run in K-zoo on Wed., so I will only pick up the basics. I have been wanting to clean out the cupboards and start over with some can goods. With the complaining going on that we have NOTHING to eat, even though we have freezers full of items, it may be time. It helps sometimes to let them be creative in coming up with meals with less choices.

We had a good weekend. Saturday we met friends at a coffee shop in Jonesville. It was good to catch up with them. The Christmas program at church is also coming together nicely. We had some new faces this week added to the mix of voices...and they were fabulous! Katie had a Fall 4-H party and enjoyed her time there. Erik is also is working to learn the new moves for the dances for the Christmas program and is actually having fun doing that. (But I don't think he would admit it!) :)

Well I need to run...have a very good day all...Be Blessed!

Beans...

We are still trying to get the remaining beans off the field. Last night we didn't work as late as we thought we could, because the sun didn't come out as planned yesterday. I puttered around the house getting to the bottom of the laundry room til shortly after the noon hour, then I got to drive truck. We stayed pretty consistent running, we had a 11,000 bushel day. I got to start the dryer up. The gas switch always freaks me out though...I need to get over that!

We got an awesome wonderful surprise yesterday. Our friends from church made up a meal for us. What a great unexpected effort on their part. I was so shocked, but felt blessed. Thank you to our favorite family of 15!! The dish will be returned with a treat inside. :)

Katie went early yesterday and helped a couple that babysits. She filled in for a while when other helpers had appointments. Erik helped G & G Geese put their camper away. Then he and Grandpa went to an auction. Of course he got a steal on two exceptionally kept snowmobiles. So they are now in the shop. What will we do with him?? I guess we have to keep him. :) They also got an antique implement for Grandpa's Ford Ferguson. It has to be picked up with a trailer. So after school work today that is where he is headed. Grandma Geese came over and wanted to help organize. So, if you come to my house and look at my VCR/DVD collection...you will see that they are alphabetically organized! How many of you can say that?

Well I think you are updated with the Myers' Family. We have a busy weekend ahead. I guess we all can say good-bye to October and welcome in November.

Blessings to Y'all

Too Long...

Hi all...wow it has been a while since I have posted. I have so much to tell you.

First off, the beans are coming along great. We only need three good days of running and we will be officially done. With 2700 acres that is always a good accomplishment. But then we have 2400 acres of corn to contend with...but that is ok, the weather is not such a factor with corn and we seem to stay quite consistent running most days.

H1N1 has broken out in Calhoun County. We know of several schools that have closed. Some closed three days last week and some closed the beginning part of this week. We have not been affected. We are, however, using our clorox wipes regularly. We even clorox wipe down the semi's when someone else drives them. I told our hired helper and he laughed at me. Maybe I am a germaphobic. But not getting the bug suits me just fine.

So, remember, about the carpet in the bonus room. They did come on Friday and it is in. It looks fabulous. It actually looks like planked floor. Really! Because of that room being above the garage we needed carpet in it for sound and warmth. When a friend suggested that print, at first I was hesitant, but We all love it!

On Friday on my trip home from Reading with the load of beans, I got a phone call from our friend Lester. Lester Yoder is a Amish gentleman in Shipshewana. He has done alot of work for my mom and dad, and has made a bedroom suite for Katie. Well he called to say the antique desk I bought at an estate sale was done. He did tell me he shipped it off to another amish man who strips and refinishes furniture. I told him, "Great...I should be down on Monday or Tuesday."

So Monday Katie and I hit the road around 12:30 headed to Shipshi. We got there had a great lunch, visited a couple of shops, spent some gift certificates we had and decided to head to Lester's to get the desk and go home. Mind you this is shortly after 4. So, we got to his house and no one was home. So we went around the corner to his parents home and his brother rode his bike over and said he would try to find Lester. When we were at Lester's a little longer his wife and girls came home from raking leaves at the neighboring bed and breakfast. Mrs. Yoder (Lavina) figured he had gone out hunting, but thought she knew where he probably sent the desk. Mind you I thought the desk would have been back at his place. So she gave me directions. To the other side of Middlebury. No problem, I thought!! So off I go. Well the roads get very confusing. So at one point I stopped and asked some Amish men were I might find Marion Yoder (no relation of course) that finishes furniture. No problem they say you go back west and look for a place way back in the woods. So I find it, it looks as though no one is home. I knock and knock and finally people come to the door. Well, no, they say we only make it new, they say, when we sold our last home the people who live there now took over the restoration business. No problem I think and off we go back to their old home. I get there as quick as I can. During all this...Lester's wife told me hopefully those people will still be at home and not be out visiting in the evening...it was pushing 6 so I was starting to get worried. So here I am with a big diesel pick-up pulling in the driveway and kids starting looking out everywhere to see who this crazy lady was and what she wanted. So in the shop I went and luckily they were there and he says...well I can't say that I received anything from Lester, so we look around and don't see my desk. So off I go back to Lester's.

So now we are back at Lester's. Livina states that she will send one of the girls out to get him from hunting. So we were getting hungry and thirsty by then so we headed into Shipshi. No sooner then we got to a place and picked up a quick bite to go and Lester calls my cell phone. Of course, I didn't get it in time so it went to voice mail. Yes, I am home, come on over and I will give you directions to where your desk it. Great I thought...it is dark and I have to find directions to a dark Amish residence.

Back to Lester's we went. He has this small card with directions. I look at him and I think he knows me well enough and he said...how would you like it if I rode with you. I jumped at that so in he came and off we went. When we got beyond the Essenhaus turned back south for a few more miles and then back east. I was so glad I had Lester with us. We actually drove by the persons house cause it was so dark. Thankfully Lester recognized it. There would have been no way I would have even been able to see it on my own. This place was Tanglewood Restoration. Glen and Leona with a last name I don't even know. Their address was Goshen. So we looked at the table with flashlights, looked ok, chatted about our farming operation, and headed back to Lester's.

On the way back to Lester's we talked about a lot of things. One thing I found fascinating was his view on Beverly Lewis books. He said..."Her books make it out like all of us are non-believers and that is not so." Yes, they do read out of the bible in High German during their church meetings. But he has a KJV bible he reads out of the old and new testament and he does believe in Christ and his Resurrection. Cool huh!

So we got back home shortly after nine. The boys were just getting home. We made a steak for them, with corn and pickles. Then the ate some of the treats we got earlier in the day from the Bread Box.

Yesterday I trucked and helped move combines.

On to cleaning the house today.

Blessings to you on this fall day~

WINDY!!

Hi all...wow is this wind incredible or what?!? Our flag is nearly busting at its seams on the top of the grain leg. Well...it is after eleven and no carpet yet. Don't you love waiting for people? They were going to be here this morning. Well they have 45 more minutes.

Doug is working on paperwork. He took Katie down to the Chiropractor this morning...and I am feeling like I should have gone instead. I guess I will take an Advil and keep moving.

We made the meeting in Jackson yesterday about the graduation. We have to decide whether or not to have Erik participate with the program. He doesn't even know the kids he will be going through the ceremony with, not like Katie will in a few years. It is time consuming and a bit costly. Will he survive not going through the commencement program, yes. Will it change the course of life, no. So why do it? There will be Senior Sunday's at church. The yearbook at Pioneers will have a page dedicated to each senior. He will receive a graduation gift from other homeschool groups we are a part of...so what is the big decision?!?

The carpet guys are on their way...we just got the call. Doug & I are going to Reading to dump two trucks of beans. I have never driven that far with a semi, so that will be interesting. I will just have to turn up my music and enjoy the ride. Hopefully he won't want to talk on the two-way radios too much...then I have to turn things down and listen then up the radio again!! :)

Oh yeah...the road side clean-up got cancelled. They thought the wind might inhibit the process. I disagree...all the kids would have to do is pick up an item, and the wind would take it to the next county...area clean! :) So the kids are home happily doing their homework. Seems when it is nice out...they want to be doing something else...when it isn't nice out...they want to be doing something else...hmmm thankfully the one who likes to be outside most only has a few credits to be done! :)

We have a busy week ahead of us...so I best get all my preparations in order. I must wish my sister-in-law from Camden a Happy Birthday tomorrow. Have a good one Brenda!

Be blessed all...and hurry home Miss B. :)

Beans

We are still running as fast as we can before the rain hits. We are well past the half-way point in our bean harvest with one combine. Doug's quote of the day is..."It takes 3 people to keep one combine going and 8 to keep two." Its a long story...someday when I have more time, I may go into more detail.

Yesterday, the kids had Jax. I had bible study, a hair appointment, and then was truck driver most of the afternoon. The kids stopped again on their way home and got some donuts and cider, which were a nice treat for Doug. We had hamburgers on the grill with all the fixins, green beans, chips, and brownies.

Today we were up super early to get at it again. It was one of those nights we could have run all night, but a person only can burn the candle at both ends for so long. And with the skeleton crew we are currently working with...it wasn't going to happen last night.

Katie has babysitting tonight, and we are supposed to be going to Jax tonight for a graduation meeting for Erik. We will see if we make it. I already let the gal in charge of it know that we may not make it over if it isn't raining.

As I type this G & G Geese are headed to Borgess hospital. I don't know a bunch of details. But prayers for my mom would be appreciated. Thanks!

Tomorrow, we have to hit the ground running again, rain or shine. We have chiropractic appointments, roadside clean-up with the F.L.A.S.H. group, getting carpet layed in the Bonus room along with the normal day to day things life brings.

Thanks for reading this...have a good day all!

Blessings~

Angie

Lady Beetles!!!

Today has turned out to be a beautiful day...other than the fact that there are lady beetles everywhere!!! It is to the point a person would think their skin is crawling.

We are running beans full steam today with two combines, and that is a good thing! I went to get a part for the grain head today with Doug. Then I helped him fix it. That is when the bugs started. It was warming up pretty good and by the time we finished and the side of the barn had so many on it there was hardly an inch between each. We, too, were covered. I just can't take it when they land and go in your ear!

We I must run...get dinner started, attend a fire meeting and do the daily here.

Have a good one all!!

On the road again...

This morning I was up and going again. I was asked by a gal at Church to accompany a young mom with her two year old daughter to U of M for a doctors appointment. Her husband couldn't go this time and it was at a new facility she hadn't gone to before. So I was up again early and on the road for the 8 a.m. appointment. We were back in Marshall shortly after 11. I went and picked up a few groceries.

While I was gone...Erik took Katie to the Dentist, and Doug got started running more beans. The beans this year are not turning like they usually do. So it is taking more time to find ones to run.

I am home now and trying to get motivated to do something. There is a W.O.W. meeting tonight for me and Katie has a get together for Horse Bowl...so again a night we need to be in two places at once. Katie, however, has a ton of homework having missed last week, so maybe we will have to bypass her meeting. We shall see.

I will end with this quote I found from my Bible Study, by Beth Moore, written from Dr. Luke..."live life one surrendered day at a time. Eyes to the East, Hands to the cross. Feet to the path.

Have a great week all ~

One more thing...Bethany...have an especially good week, be safe, and we will see you soon!
Lastly...Melissa...Coffee, Call me!! =)

Back Home...again

Wow, I'm beginning to sound like a broken record. Well, for those of you who prayed...thanks. Everything went smooth. I got in Winona last night about 8:15...caught a shuttle to the campground in Rochester, which took another hour. Chatting with my parents till around 11. Slept around 5 hours and hit the road for Michigan. It was truly nerve racking making our way around and down the hills till we hit the Mississippi. It was mostly in the dark. Not having driven the truck that has a manual transmission with that long of a trailer in quite some time made way for some nervousness, but we arrived safely home around 6pm. Chicago was a bear even though some might say traffic was light for Chicago! :) I did have moments when it was raining that I recalled spinning around backwards with my horse trailer down I-69 last winter. I silently sang my way through those thoughts. I did get a weeks worth of Bible Study done from B.C. to Chicago on the train. And read a great book I borrowed from my friend Em. Thanks all to read my ramblings.

Oh yeah...I must not forget...when I got home I looked up...and saw blinds! My terrific husband hung all my blinds on my windows while I was gone. = )

Thanks again for prayers and blessing for a good Lord's day tomorrow!

On the road again...

Well, I'm headed to Rochester, MN...see you all in a few days. Obviously from yesterday's post I'm a little nervous. Take care all.

Blessings to you ~

Reservations...

Today I made plans to spend nearly 11 hours on a Amtrak train tomorrow...yeah! Seems I get to drive a truck and camper home on Saturday, maybe Sunday...through Chicago...again yeah! Are you reading my true excitement?

Now, if I had like a 5 hour layover in Chicago and I got to shop for a few hours...now that would be YEAH! I tried to talk my son into doing the trip. His Dad however disagreed with me. He thinks we'd have to call him stumpy after the trip cause he would eat all his fingernails down and his fingers most the way off if he got too nervous driving through there with the trailer. He drove to the Mackinac Bridge fine...but no go with the Dad. But he is fine sending me??? Where are my 3 brothers??? Ok...enough venting. Honor thy mother and father...and my husband, right!

One thing to look forward to, the train station is very close to the Chicago Board of Trade. I may go there and see the people with whom we trade our commodities. Great group of people. One is a very good friend. He and his wife had a little one a few months ago, I hope to see him and at least see some pictures of the little one. They live in Rockford, so there is no chance to see her and the baby. Maybe I can get lunch out of one of the people too, cause my train doesn't leave out of Chicago till 2:15

So today...it is laundry, more laundry, tidying up the house, maybe a big pot of soup. I feel as though I barely hit the ground here and I'm off again.

At least Katie will be here holding the fort down. She will make sure those boys are fed, and things get done. She is more of a drill sargent then I am at times! :)

Hey, maybe I can get like 3 weeks of bible study done, then I wouldn't have to worry if I miss a day when we are in the heat of harvest.

Thanks for letting me vent for those who read my postings.

Stay warm and be blessed! =)

There's no place like Home!

Well, we are back after our whirlwind tour south to the All American Quarter Horse Congress. Katie went there to compete with the Calhoun County horse bowl team. She originally was with the other team and won regionals, but the this team did better at State. So Katie was the alternate to this team going to Congress. But, nice thing is she was put in to compete in all rounds. She didn't buzz in at first, but in their last round of competition, she buzzed in twice and answered correctly both times. One of her questions was one she learned from her Apologia Biology class from last year. Funny thing was, no one else on her team knew the answer and even said they couldn't believe she buzzed in and that she knew! She was so excited. With horse bowl, if you buzz in, you have to be quite sure you know the answer...cause if you get it wrong it takes points away from your team. So, at times, it is intimidating to even attempt an answer.

We left for Columbus on Sunday evening at 8:30 at night. I had made reservations in Lima, OH. We got there about 11 p.m. The next day we got up and headed off to Columbus. Our morning consisted of shopping at the Polaris Shopping Center. We found this mall a few years ago. It is huge with a Saks Fifth Avenue on one end and a Sears on the other with every store known to man in between, or so it seems. We found some fun things, then ate lunch at a restaurant called Molly Woo's (People compare it to a P.F. Chang) After lunch we headed off to our hotel, the Hilton Garden Inn, the same place we stayed last year. We kicked off our shoes for a few minutes then headed off to Congress to shop. If you have never been to Congress there is every tack, roping, reining, bedding, stalls, watering devices, western jewelery, western knick-knack store you can think of is represented there at Congress with the hopes of you wanting to make a purchase. We looked around for a while then went back and relaxed at the hotel for a while.

The next day we had to be at Congress at 7:45. Since they didn't make it all the way to the end of the competition because of their loss, we decided to head home. We hit the road around 3, stopped in Fort Wayne for gas and to eat dinner and was home around 8:45.

Today...Erik went to Jackson, but Katie did not. She had told her teachers that she would not be there today and had gotten her homework. I went to Bible Study then out for my Weekly Dose of Bosserd Family Farms. Cutting corn stalks, having pictures taken...it's a long story! :) The kids are leaving shortly for Craft Photographic Gallery, for their school pictures with the Flash group. Erik's last year!

Blessings for a good day!

Finally Friday!

What a week we have had. At times this week I truly didn't know if we were coming or going. Giving a quick overview of the some of the things we had going this week were: making centerpieces, making several desserts, attending meetings, bible study, schooling, errands, birthday dinners, senior pictures, appointments...whew! And that list doesn't even hit it all. We are so looking forward to relaxing and attending a pig roast tomorrow with friends.

The weatherman states that the current front should break, so tomorrow we too may be able to run more beans...and that is a good thing!

Have a safe weekend and be blessed~

Birthday Fun!

Hi all...We are celebrating Doug's birthday today. His first gift was that the weather was going to hold out and we will be able to Combine more beans today. Second, he received breakfast in bed. (That is our family tradition we started years ago for birthdays) He then opened a package we got him...a huge bag of Peanut M & M's (his favorite!), an omelet pan, and a new spatula for the omelet pan. Yesterday, when we were making omelets, we found the pan we use is not sufficient, so for fun we purchased the pan for him to use.

We are having our big meal at noon. The menu will consist of the following: Grilled Pork Roast, Potato Supreme, Broccoli Salad, Pine Nut Salad, Asparagus, Baking Powder Biscuits, and Mile High Carrot Cake. All his favorites. Both G & G Geese and his parents are coming over to eat the mid-day meal.

We will no more and get done with dinner, and we will be off to get Erik's senior pictures taken. Erik plans to take his Ford 8N he restored with him for pictures. He has been working on getting it shined up.

Katie has been awesome help with prep work for me today too.

Well...I must run...Blessings on your day all.

Rain...

I admit, I like those days when you can just sit inside and enjoy a gentle rain outside and snuggle up to watch a movie. Or, just doing those inside things you have been avoiding because you have been outside 20 hours a day only to come in to sleep. But this is wearing on me. Just when it looks like we can start running beans again, we are going to be hit with more rain. Maybe God is trying to get us all to slow down, testing our patience...hmmm. I'll have to let you know on that one.

We had such a busy weekend there were times when we didn't know if we were coming or going. We went and got more things to finish the electrical in the bonus room. I know...maybe God wants us to have that room done before the combining gets going full stream?

Yesterday I went to my friend Pam's house and worked. I helped her a little and she helped me alot. She allowed me to pick some gourds and squash out of her field and pick some flowers from her beautiful garden to put together arrangements for the 4-H Awards night, that is tonight. I actually used a cordless drill to make the openings for the flowers. I had a gal that used to run a florist/garden shop come by and look at the drill and then look at me and said, "I made flower arrangements for over 20 years and never once thought of using a cordless screwdriver." She said it very serious. As of now, I still don't know if she really thought it was a good idea or not. I did get compliments on the arrangements from others...so I think Doug's cordless screwdriver idea was good.

Tonight is the awards dessert. Doug and I have a fire meeting meeting. I said I would make a snack for the firefighters, so I might as well get cooking for both events.

We are excited...Erik is getting his senior pictures on Thursday with his Ford 8N. So he needs to work on getting it cleaned up for that. One good thing about a boys senior pictures...very few clothing changes.

Have a blessed day all...

Beans and Rain

Hi all...we received over an inch of rain last night and this morning...so it is a little soggy around here. Last night we ran beans till they got tough. So far we have around 150 acres of beans combined. Doug is very happy with the yield, thus far. We have run both irrigated and non-irrigated.

I made the big Sam's Club run yesterday. I love going there, but as my Dad calls it, instead of Sam's Club, he says it's the $100 Club. It is so hard to get out of there for less than that amount.

I then went to J.C. Penny's and ordered some blinds that I needed for the bonus room I am trying to finish. It seems to be the never ending room.

On my way home yesterday afternoon I got a call from G & G Geese. Seems my brother Gary was over and felt the need for Pizza. Erik was there helping cut wood, and he thought it was a great idea too...so that was to be the order of the day. So much for Pizza Momma...last night it was Pizza Hut. Doug was fine with that, he ate with the auto-steer working after I brought him a semi a little later on, after we unloaded the Sam's Club purchases.

The kids then went off to their 4-H Council Meeting. Not much planned for tonight. Maybe we will do some pond dwelling with friends. Then there is a bonfire after the Harper Creek game at 9 with the small group the kids do some things with in B.C. We will see how the mood and the weather strikes us.

Before I end this...in case I don't blog tomorrow...I must wish my brother Ken the oldest of the Sunday "kids" a Happy 49th Birthday! This is your last year in the 40's...hehehe..LOL...ROFL. Just cause your older doesn't mean you are wiser!! Have a good one big bro.

Enjoy your weekend all...stay safe and be blessed!

October and the First Frost

Hi all...can you believe it is the first of October already and along with that we woke up to our first frost of this season.

Yesterday Katie and I had dental appointments in B.C. @ K.C.C. then we went down to the Hillsdale County Fair.

We had a great time. We saw a lots of friends, some reletives and people who live very nearby that we don't see nearly enough were there. I also ran into a person who trained my A.Q.H.A. horse Mikey that runs his horses in sulkey races. He won his first race yesterday. He invited me and and others to get in the race winning picture. So I may end up on Mr. Eddie's wall of fame. :) We had to leave just as he was running his next race, so I can't tell you the results of that.

Erik went to Jackson for classes. Katie had the day off of Pioneers.

When we got home from the fair...we got a surprise...Doug was running beans. They started in the field behind our house. It always is good to get started, so the bugs can be worked out of the new combine. Maybe I can get a friend, Miss B., to show me how and I will start posting pictures on my blog so you can see our harvest in action.

Today, I am running to get some groceries, and Katie is driving Miss Daisy aka G. Geese to Coldwater to pick up a few things, they always have a great time together. Katie did drive, from Battle Creek to Hillsdale yesterday and did a great job, I still have most of my fingernails. (just kidding!)

Well, I better get going, its going to be a busy day.

God Bless~

Brrr...

We had a great weekend. I started off on Friday afternoon/evening going and helping a good friend chop and prepare things for their children's Michigan reception. (Their son and daughter-in-law were married in Colorado, so they had a get together for all those who were unable to attend the reception this summer) Doug met me at their place and we headed off to B.C. and got a few groceries and ate out at Panera...Yum!

On Saturday, Katie & I went to the Women In the Outdoor day at Centerline Shooting Club in Bellevue. My sister-in-law Shelly met us there along with her neighbor and friends. Katie and I did archery, self defense, and hand guns. I have proof from the huge bruise on my right forearm from archery...it was fun though. Later Katie had to babysit.

Erik went to the Consignment Auction as planned. He bought a plethora of items. Everything from tractors, running gears, tires and lots of accessories. His friend Stevie did go with him as planned and then spent the night to gear up for Sunday.

Sunday started early around here. Erik, Stevie and Katie all left shortly after 6 am to to work the pancake breakfast. Because the breakfast was slow they were able to leave in time to go to the early church service. They came home and Erik wasn't feeling well for a while and I thought the afternoon plans were going to have to be cancelled. But, after they hung out a while, he got feeling better and soon they were on their way to the Hillsdale County Fair to watch the Combine Demolition Derby.

We went to choir then out with our local Ag dealership to dinner at Schuler's. We were there for a time and had a nice time visiting with another local farm family from the Springport area.

Today we have the usual Horse Bowl and a fire meeting tonight and one tomorrow as well. We had a former Fire Chief pass away. It was the Chief that Doug started with in 1982. We may have to put together a honor guard for his funeral tomorrow. Tomorrow night we are actually celebrating, because our Fire Department earned money from a Federal Grant for fire turnout gear. So, we have a vendor coming to measure for sizes and fit us with turnout gear, leather boots and gloves.

Today the new combine came home...so we are now putting the Myers touch on it so it can become field ready. We are planning on the end of the week...but you all know we can't start on Friday! :) Thursday one pass is all that is needed to get-r-going on Friday! There is my redneck moment!! :)

You are now up to date with me...where are the rest of my fellow bloggers...are you not planning on updating your blogs soon? I miss you!!

Blessings to you all on this cold September evening! :)

SQUASH!

Hi all...hope you are having a good day today. I am officially tired of squash. Yesterday my mom came over and brought me about 30 more squash. We split, cleaned, baked, dug out, packaged, and froze those squash most of the day. In the middle of the day though, I made dinner for my family, my parents and my Uncle Dave who was up for the day. Luckily I had a big steak out. So, we had grilled sirloin steak, grilled fresh vegetables, fresh coleslaw, and of course, squash. It was really good and we enjoyed eating outside on the deck.

Later my mom and I went to our basement and started in on some boxes. I had moved a bunch down there when we started finishing our bonus room. Mostly we went through books (lots of them), keepsakes, some throw away items and some for goodwill. If anyone would like some books give me a call. They are more for younger kids, early readers and some horse series as well.

We just had an awesome lunch of Chili that Katie made up this morning. It was perfect given the weather outside.

I am going soon to give blood. I haven't given since last year. I enjoy giving but the way I give it takes so long, nearly 2 hours. They divide my blood when they take it to use it more ways. I have only done this one other time.

Tomorrow Katie and I am going to a Women's Outdoor day up by Bellevue. Then in the evening she has a babysitting job.

Erik will be preoccupied by an Auction tomorrow. It is his biannual Consignment Sale he attends near Battle Creek. He has some items over for sale and he always brings home treasures as well. He will go with his friend Stevie. They always have a blast.

Sunday is the 4-H Pancake Breakfast. Both kids will work that on the morning shift. Usually 6:30 to 10 a.m. Later I believe Erik wants to go to the Hillsdale County Fair to see the Combine Demolition Derby. He has to start learning methods for his strategic attack for next year. :)

So you are all updated. Enjoy this weather, and be safe all.

~Blessings to you~

Autumn Days

Hi all...Today started out abruptly. This morning at 5ish in the morning someone decided to stop in the road right near our house and honk repeatedly at a deer that either needed to cross the road or one that was in the road. This thing happens all the time, at various times of the night, but when it is so close to the time one needs to wake up, that just isn't nice. Then when you try to fall back asleep, and the alarm goes off because you really should be up...YIKES! Needless to say I have been dragging most of the day.

When I did get up at 6, I pulled together the Morning Maple Muffins to go along with the Cappuccino and Fudgy Banana Muffins. After some thought and some taste testing I decided to make the Espresso Spread to go along with the Cappuccino Muffins.

Doug did breakfast. One the menu was scrambled eggs with bacon, cheese, and broccoli, and of course muffins. We are kinda boring cause we do mostly the same stuff on Wednesday's. Next week though the kids would like Omelets. I told them I would get the ingredients they like and be ready to make it next week.

They seemed to have a good day in Jackson. On the way home Katie convinced Erik to stop for donuts at an orchard near Homer/Concord area. Yum!

The leftover muffins from bible study went to my friends at the Bosserd's. We found out that the spread goes really well over fresh apples. My friend Kim, who needs things gluten free, was smelling those muffins and decided she could have some of the fun with the spread. So she took some and smeared it on her apple. And then we followed suit. Wow...that was good. Then she and Pam went to pick pumpkins. I was banned from the Pumpkin Patch, cause I had nice clothes on, and shoes that would be ruined in the field cause it was so wet. So I stayed at the barn and chatted with Jolene and put together a few baskets for them. (The baskets consisted of corn husks, indian corn, and gourds.) Before leaving I went and picked a pt of raspberries, yellow grape tomatoes, some peppers, an eggplant, zucchini, and some cabbage to bring home.

Once home I have put together dinner and am running back to town for an appt. Katie is going to pull weeds at the church to help pull the gardens together for winter.

You are now caught up on our day.

Rest well this evening...I plan to! :)

Fun Fall

Today I actually have nothing officially on my calendar. Seems rather strange. Katie started her day by making another batch of fudgy banana muffins. I made a batch of cappuccino chip muffins. They were ok, but I think they would be better if I made the espresso spread to go with them. Tomorrow or later today I will make some called morning maple muffins. Why all the muffins you ask? Well, I am in charge of the treat at the Bible Study tomorrow morning.

I got a call today from G. Geese and she has tons of extra squash left that doesn't seem to be keeping due to the heat, so that may be on the agenda for later. Baking squash and freezing it for this winter. It isn't too bad to do, just takes a little time. I would have to go over and retrieve them first.

Erik has a load of scrap steel loaded and ready to go to Sherwood. Doug plans on going with him. They will stop on the way home at the Pig Roast/Corn Days that is being held near Athens. We could go too, but I may pass this time.

The weather seems to be turning out nice today, like yesterday afternoon.

Have a good day all!

A Drizzling Monday

Today is one of those days you wonder if it ever going to just rain. It has been overcast and drizzling all day. Enough to flatten your hair, put clothing layers on and back off because of the humidity, and just put a person in a bit of a frump. Of course, I'm not just going to sit and watch the day go by and eat my bon bon's. Wouldn't that be fun sometime? I would like hot coffee and scones or muffins though.

Oh yeah...I did have my hot tea and Katie and I made Fudgy Banana Muffins this morning. And, after my Monday meeting I took some coffee and a few muffins to a friends house and shared with her and her hubby. We actually sat a minute and ate them. So I did sit around and do nothing. Of course, she does sit a lot as her customers roll in and buy her fresh product, that magically makes its way to to her awaiting baskets. :)

I then went in and got a few groceries and headed home.

This afternoon we are headed to Bellevue to meet up with the Equine Chiropractor. Hopefully he can put Chip back in-line and he will have absolutely no excuses at that point. I may take Mikey up with us too.

This evening, Katie has Horse Bowl. I need to get a walk in, so hopefully that will fit into the schedule too.

Yesterday we went to church. We then went to a School Reunion for the Eckford Township, Country Schools. There were quite a number there. The bad thing was there was no one from my grade. Actually, there was no one within 10 years of my grade.

Later we went to choir and looked over the Christmas program. It looks really good. We are excited to be a part of this again this year. Actually, I think everyone in our family is going to be involved. Even Erik may be a townspeople. I may have to do more coaxing to make that happen though. I do hope more people become involved. They were going to have the main choir and then other singers moving throughout the play type program. So that is my plug to anyone wishing to be part.

~Have a blessed day all~

A Sunny Saturday

What a gorgeous day. The horses feet look great after the farrier was here last night. I did go out with a friend while Doug & Katie stayed and finished up with the horses. After that the two of them went and got Chinese takeout (Katie's favorite, its food Doug eats it) and rented a movie. When I got home I was able to sit and watch the last part with them. When I first started down the stairs I was told at first it was daddy/daughter time and I could not join them...then they laughed and said I could...obviously, that was planned! :)

While Erik is away his sister thinks she needs to do some cleaning. She loves to clean. So, we are taking down curtains, cleaning shades, windows and everything in his room. I'm sure he will be thrilled. Just kidding. It drives him nuts when she gets like this. There are some weekends she will wake him up just so she can get started on cleaning the upstairs and wants his help. She must have picked up a gene that jumped from my mom, bypassed me and went directly to her.

Katie has small group tonight in Battle Creek. If Erik is home, I may have him take her. Or, he may just want to drive around the block and visit a friend. Sounds like they may be home about 5ish tonight.

We are planning on enjoying the weekend, and relaxing!

Blessings to you all!

Mackinac

I got a report from those up north...my little man, Erik, (I know old habits die hard...he is hardly my little man any more!) has found several tractors he would like to call his own. He looked over the bunches that were ready to cross the bridge last night. Today they are watching them. I went online and found a web site that shows the bridge and the tractors crossing, but it isn't a continual process, one must update the site yourself. So to watch it from here is rather boring.

Today we are waiting for the Farrier, hopefully that will be soon.

Doug and I just got back from taking some scrap metal over to Sherwood. Then we had a medical run, and we went over and let the chickens out at G & G Geese. He is now headed to B.C. to get products to close our pool, an oil filter for his truck, and things for the hot tub.

Oh yeah...Katie is diligently working on her school work! :)

When he gets back we have to go put in One Eye. (she lost and eye to pink-eye a few years ago, yes we are so creative with our names! :) We have to give her a shot of ova-cyst. We have decided to bred her instead getting rid of her at this time. She lost a set a twins earlier this year, and G. Geese thinks we should give it another try. So that will be our afternoon.

I may be having a girls night out tonight with a friend, if so, Doug is going to take Katie out to eat and to a movie.

So now you are updated.

Blessings for a beautiful weekend!!!

Busy Times

Last night we were busy. We got the corn done around 9 pm. The ears were on the short side so we only ended up with a little over 50 qt. bags, but that will do us for now. (Thank you Billybob!) Between blanching I made 3 peach pies. Unfortunately, they didn't finish baking until 11:45.

Today Erik is heading up north with G & G Geese. They are going to witness the antique tractors cross the bridge. He would love to drive over himself, but its an age thing, you must be 18 to cross for liability reasons. We will miss him, he will be gone till sometime Saturday. Funny thing is, he may not come home with them. They may stay up north and he will hitch a ride back with his other grandparents.

Katie is home with us. Tonight there is a babysitting job. She watches a group of kids while their parents have small group. It is always a fun night for her, but sometimes challenging. The reason being, she tries to have a fun activity for them to do, but with the age range of the kids, it can be hard at times.

Today we are going to pull together the horse barn. The mats have gotten crazy and we just need to tidy. I am also going to work Mr. Chip. The goal is to get him back in shape to get to work. Katie has a ton of homework, so I told her I would for a few days. Mikey gets time off til he gets his shoes, I hate to aggravate his foot any further.

So overall a busy day. I hope you all have a good one.

Blessings to all!

Feels like Fall!

I can't believe I missed blogging yesterday, so I will fill you in. Yesterday I worked Mikey and Chip as Katie did her school work. Poor Mikey's leg hurts him bad. He will get shoes on his front on Friday. He usually feels better then. Then there was Chip. No problems what so ever. I only ran them in the round pen. So maybe he has a saddle phobia.

Late afternoon we went up to Johnson Systems and the kids had their picture taken for the local paper. They wanted to promote what they do with the steers they buy at the 4-H Auction. They have them butchered and distribute some of the meat to their employees. Then we went to Cascarelli's pizza in Homer. Doug's Grandma wanted pizza for her 95th birthday. After that we visited some friends houses.

Today the kids woke up ready for a day in Jackson. This morning they had scrambled eggs, with homemade sausage, broccoli and cheese. Along with that they had a New England Blueberry Coffeecake. This was a recipe I found years ago in a Country Living, it has pecans on top. It is so good.

After the kids got off to Jackson, I went to the Church and started a new Beth Moore bible study. It looks like its going to be a good one. (I miss you Melissa!!)

Next I went to the Bosserd's. I always have fun there. A hung out with Pam and helped her a little by picking a few things and I helped her set up the Corn Maze. We had so much fun trying to find our way through the maze. I recommend going there and make your way through. This year it is all about Farm Facts.

Soon I will be getting two bushels of sweet corn to do yet tonight. Might be a late night, but my supplier had school today.

Until later, have a blessed day.

M.S.U.

Well we had our appointment. You know when you don't feel good and you finally call and make your appointment with the Dr.'s office cause you feel so bad. Then, when you get in to see the Dr. your head actually clears up and you don't have that fever any longer?? Well...that was our day. Yes, it is true, no sign of lameness today. It blew my mind. Maybe the things that Dr. Irving did are kicking in and working, maybe a few weeks off waiting for an appointment. (Even though we saw him being gimpy in the pasture just two days ago), maybe the trailer ride up there put everything in place. (hardly!) But that was our day. Dr. Stick said go home, put him to work and push him as hard as he would work getting ready for fair. Push him to the point that if he is going to be sore he will be. Then, if he shows signs of lameness, bring him back up and see them, Dr. Stick and Prange. We, then will go from there to determine a diagnosis. But until then, have fun. Ok, so that is what we are intending on doing.

The farrier will be here on Friday, the round pen is going up tonight. Mikey is going back to work as well. The only one who will be missing out is our sweet little Dexter. I wish he was cart broken. That too will come with time.

The boys went over to get the cows in to have Swatch bred. She was the only one we haven't bred cause she had a late calf. Her calf will be Katie's steer for next years fair. I, for some reason, got off the hook. I could have used a run to bring them up. Always is more fun running to bring critters up, than running to burn calories. Now running to get something tasty to eat, I can do that! :)

So that was our day. Tonight Erik has a fair board meeting. Katie has Horse Bowl and 4-H horse club meeting, thankfully they are at the same place. Maybe I can get a walk in tonight downtown.

One last thing...Olivia was bred the other day...Yeah!!

Starting Book three later tonight Em. :)

Have a blessed day!

Sunshine and Swimming

Today we enjoyed a beautiful day of rest. We went to church and had an nice sermon, I then worked in the 2-3's room during second service, what fun!! I always have fun playing with the kids. I am the one who ends on the floor crawling around with them, go figure! :)

We then came home and actually hung out at the pool. We actually sat out most the afternoon. I started reading a new book which is really good. (Emily S...I need to get you the first of the series to read, I'm on the second one!) We then had choir and small group. Our small group involved a fish fry from fish that were caught in Alaska, from a couple who went on a cruise this summer. It was an awesome dinner. But you know when any get together involves food...it is always fun. I was in charge of dessert. I made two. One was a torte that had angel food cake, pudding, whipped cream, and fresh raspberries, topped with grated semi-sweet chocolate. The next was a peach cobbler, with bite sized biscuits. The peaches were peeled by by loving husband. (he wanted me to tell you all that) :)

Katie went to Youth Group after choir...and Erik went to Uncle Ted's then to friends and participated in a Bon Fire. Both had a blast and came home very excited with all their adventures.

So that was our weekend. We are off to MSU in the morning to see the Dr. Wish us luck!

Blessing for a good start to your week!

Remember When...

I went to a friends blogspot and she had a country music video playing with all the scenes from September 11, 2001. Wow...as a person goes along with their life, it is easy to forget some of the particulars of that day. It actually was a day like today. Kinda cool and foggy.

If you would like to see her video. It is http://www.asheracres.blogspot.com/ This girl is such a thoughtful and sweet girl who seems to have a heart like no other.

Things here seem to be coming together. After hearing from Michigan State yesterday that the vet, Dr. VanWessun (sp), we were supposed to see about Chip was no longer with them, we were rescheduled in on Monday with a Dr. Stick. So, hopefully, he will provide some answers.

Today we are having a few cows pregnancy checked to make sure we are good to go. If any are not, they are being shipped. It will be a sad day if Olivia isn't bred. We all love Olivia, but she absorbed last year and so far this year we have bred her twice. Maybe we could make her our Gomer?? Or maybe not. Anyway...that is what is in store for us. We also will treat the cows and calves for flies.

This weekend we have a field day we always look forward to in Marshall. It is always a good time with good friends.

Have a safe and blessed day all!

Back Home Again

Yes...you read this right. This morning at 5:45 I got a phone call that my mom was having severe leg pain. So off we go again to Borgess. I like that hospital...only not that much anymore. It is 11 am and we are back home...but man am I tired. They did an ultrasound of her leg and everything appeared good. The funny thing, it was the opposite leg from the angio from yesterday. But all the same when we called in they said she needed to be checked out just in case. Of course it would help if I would go to bed before midnight. So I think a nap is in order for me today. I may go out and sit by the pool...it is looking like a beautiful day!

Oh...the rest of the family...Katie is babysitting for a neighbor and doing school work there, and Erik and Doug went to Dundee for a field day.

Blessings to all!

Back Home

We are back home already. Thanks to all for your prayers. My mom had an angio and they checked her secondary artery and both carotid arteries and all clear. So that is a good thing! The Dr. was very optimistic. But stroke is a very mysterious thing, not something you can predict.

We sent the kids to Jackson today early. Katie had Pioneers and Erik had his classes at RWC. He spent his time between his classes working on soil sample results. Katie said the first day went great. She is taking Anatomy and Physiology, Sign Language, History/Geography, and Speech/Debate there.

They got a great breakfast this morning consisting of scrambled eggs with ham, broccoli, and cheese and coffee cake.

The boys are off this evening golfing with the Anderson's of Albion golf outing.

One more thing...Melissa...my tomorrow is now wide open...call me!!

Thanks again for all your prayers...Have a wonderful evening! :)

On the run...

Today I took my mom to B.C. I had a meeting and we had to get some things...so we were at Sams Club, Walmart and Hobby Lobby. Then we had a nice lunch in Marshall.

I got home only to get in the truck with Doug and head to Dowagiac to get Peaches. We were very fortunate, the peaches were priced right. They were free. The person we contacted got a hold of their neighbor who grows them, and always borrows his tractor. Well, the neighbor said he owed him and the person we contacted said he owed us, so he said no charge! I told him...that it didn't count too much...cause his contribution is costing me time. But, I am very appreciative of the peaches. He is a good person.

Tomorrow my mom is having an angio. 9/9/09 @ 9:00 a.m. Please pray. They will go up her thigh and make sure her secondary artery in the back of her neck is clear cause she only has one left. If necessary, they will stent it. Dr. Al Ali of Borgess is the best!! A person can go on-line and read articles about him. So that is where I will be tomorrow. I may end up over there overnight. We will see!

If you will, please be in prayer for her tomorrow.

Labor Day

We had a nice day yesterday visiting with neighbors and friends. The boys worked on a Derby Combine. Katie babysat.

Today we made an awesome pork roast on the grill with winter squash, corn on the cob, a salad of fresh tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers, and peach cobbler. Then we went over and picked stones on the new alfalfa seeding, returned some movies and got coffee and a hot cup of tea. I'm tired and ready for bed and its only 8...maybe the hot tub is calling.

The Munchkins are Here

Today we are having fun with 4 extra kids that Katie is actually babysitting at our house. There are three boys and 1 girl, ranging in age from 8-3. The little princess is the youngest. I say that because she actually arrived wearing her Cinderella dress. It was so precious. They so far have made cookies with Katie, watched a short movie, had lunch, played with kittens, and have gone swimming. We are going over to G & G Geese's house soon and they will see the baby calves and take a walk by the pond and play with the dogs over there and see chickens. Pizza is planned for dinner later. Wow, this is a lot of work...but it is fun!

Erik went to the big garage sales in Tekonsha and hung out with some good friends, and now is on his way up to bale hay at the place Katie takes lessons.

When we go to the Geese's, Doug & I will take the round bales off the field, so that will be done.

We are planning on going west at some point during the weekend to get two bushels of peaches. I wasn't planning on canning this year, but Katie insists that yes we are. Doug says Peach cobbler everyday till there are gone would be fine for him. We will see.

I hope everyone has a relaxing Holiday.

Blessings~

Change of Plans

Today our plans for MSU has changed. We got a call yesterday afternoon that the Dr. had a family emergency and had to cancel his appointments. So, we will take priority next week when he resumes his schedule. The bad thing is, we have such a busy week ahead with school and other commitments and G. Geese's angio. But as always things will work out if it is His will.

So today will be grocery shopping and tiding up for the extras here tomorrow.

Blessings for a great day all!

The Cleaning Continues

Thanks to Katie bug, my house is finally starting to look like something. She is such a great help. On top of everything else, she has made two pies and two batches of cookies this week. She also is getting started on her school work a few days early.

Erik also has had a busy week, he has been to Jackson twice for classes, mowed hay, raked hay, went goose hunting. Thankfully, he didn't bring any home for me to cook. Now he is getting some items around for the big Labor Day Garage Sale in Tekonsha. He is selling his weight machine he was given by moving it out of a persons basement. So after moving it into our basement and having it here for about a year, it is being moved out and off to someone else. (Yeah) I like free weights best anyway...and man did it take up room.

I have a lunch date today...Yeah for me. That will be fun. We did meet up with some awesome friends last night after a late dinner for desserts. We always have such a good time with these people.

Tomorrow we are off to MSU with Chip. He is to see Dr. VanWessun (sp?) I guess he is quite good at what he does.

Now you are up to date with us for now.

Have a blessed day all!

Work Day

Today I have no excuses. I must get my house pulled back together. After the fair and the floors it is time. You see the contents of my living room are in my garage and have been for quite some time. We had our floors re-sanded this summer. We started with the living room then went to the rest of the house and moved it all in the living room. So as we are putting things back and reorganizing and getting rid of a bunch of things, I tend to drag my feet with wanting to keep things. Then with fair smack dab in the middle, and you know nothing got done then.

I find it hard throwing some things away...but I have to go with the concept...if you haven't used it in a year get rid of it. YIKES!

Oh...update on Chip...we have a call into the vet awaiting the next move.

Have a great and productive day all!!

Update...

We went up to ride and decided to lounge Chip a minute before Katie got on. Mr. Chip was way off on his right back side. He is tracking nearly 6-8" behind the imprint of his front foot. So he gets more rest and more tests. Very frustrating. So Katie didn't ride him...but, we got to play with Maddie and hold baby Ava. So fun. And...we got a new car today. We replaced the Old Yukon Cornelius (remember from Rudolph) with a new one...Yeah!

Katie & Chip

Today we are going up to the arena Katie rides at when she has a lesson. She is going to ride Chip for the first time since fair. Nerves are working a little on my part that she is safe and that we can figure out everything we need to with Chip. I hope it was fair overload that was sending him over the edge with stress and his need to buck so much. I know Katie B. (the gal who gives Katie M. lessons) will be anxious to want to get on the horse...but just having had a baby two weeks ago...that can't happen. So, think of us around 11. No we did not put him on his meds yet. We think that might only be for fair time?? I will keep you all updated.

Fresh Hay

Today we will be cutting the new seeding for the second time. Erik did a great job sowing the field this spring and it has turned out great. So, today we will get to smell the wonderful scents fresh mowed hay gives off. The only downfall is it is at my parents so we won't get to enjoy it overnight.

Yesterday we had our church picnic, everyone had a great time. Katie and I walked to the picnic. It was only about 1 3/4 miles away but was a great time and good conversation.

Blessing on this day to all of you!

A beautiful day!

I think I see the sun?? Our Grillfest dinner was basically average. It did not make you jump up and down saying great meal, but the people there did have a good time. Not bad for putting a golf outing together for the first time. (Good Job Kurtis!) Today we are going to go and research new cell phone providers...Nextel may be out! We then have a retirement open house and a wedding late this afternoon. Hopefully the weather will cooperate today for these events. Still trying to get the house pulled back together from the floors and fair.

Crazy Day

We had two Dr.'s appointments today. One for the horse and one for G. Geese. The horse needs to be put on medicine for schizophrenia (Not Kidding!) And G. Geese needs an angioplasty. The boys are golfing in the rain. (A fund raiser for Fredonia Fire Department) we will go soon for the grillfest dinner. Katie baked an awesome blueberry pie while I was gone to K-zoo. Prayers would be appreciated for upcoming procedures.

Until Later...

Busy day today...we might have gotten a new member of the family today...lets see how things work out! Tomorrow...we have to take Chip to the vet again...to see what the latest dilemma involves.

So...here it goes, I am attempting to be in and have our own blogspot. I don't know how often I will post, but will do my best. Welcome to our site. God Bless!