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August 21 Wild Kingdom, and the food chainI brought home 2, teddy bear hamsters from Seattle. My youngest daughter was ecstatic.
About a week later one of our cats got the cage open and was preparing to make a meal out of the smallest one, when Lisa rescued it.
Poor thing died not too long after that.
Hamsters must not be too smart, and or, I have the smartest cats on earth. We bought a new cage so that it wouldn't be so easy for them to get into, and yet....
Last night I got up to get a drink and I noticed Romeo watching, very intently, under the fridge. I've seen that look before and I knew exactly what he was waiting for.
The cage was open and the hamster was gone. Now, if I were a hamster and my cage were opened and I was in a house full, no, a room full of cats, I would NOT get out, but, it seems that this one did.
I had to move the fridge to get to him and he's missing a bunch of hair, but he looks to be OK. Only time will tell.
Rodents, sheesh! BIG HUGS, Steph August 20 Pics and a new additionHi, I posted pictures of, Spicy, the mama cat nursing the baby kittens... yes, kittens as in 2, instead of 1.
The other day I got a phone call from a lady who had been soooo kindly referred to me by our local animal shelter, she had found a kitten along side the road and was hoping that we would take it... OK, call me a sap, but I said, "Yes."
When they brought the kitten by, I was shocked to see she was probably only a day or two old. She still has her umbilical cord attached.
Spicy is nursing them both. I have to take them and put them on her to nurse, but, hey that's minor compared to bottle feeding them.
Gauge is doing great and having fun. My girls are depressed because tomorrow is the first day of school! lol BIG HUGS, Steph August 14 All the news that's fit to print...Let's see... what's been going on here. I'll leave out the drama that's turning my hair white.
That leaves...
I have a new kitten. The other night my oldest daughter came in crying with a very small, young kitten. It's eyes aren't even open yet. It seems that he was in a trailer of a family she knows and his mother has disappeared. The family was going to let him starve to death, so, she brought him home to me. After some frantic phone calls I have learned that if you are going to bottle feed a kitten you need to use a very tiny bottle, (specially made for these little ones) goats milk, warm wash clothes and Vaseline.
Never warm the milk in a microwave, it kills all the nutrients. They need to be fed every 2 hours (once you actually get them to accept being bottle fed). After they wake up you have to wipe their lil bottoms with a warm damp wash cloth to stimulate their bowels and every other time use Vaseline so their bottom doesn't get to sore.
I fed the lil guy all night and the next day, while frantically trying to find a lactating Mama kitty. I made phone call after phone call and had no luck. Finally when I thought all hope was lost, my sister tells me that she thinks one of my brother's has a mama cat who's still nursing!
She's just weaning hers and they are eating solid foods. I took the baby to their house and miracle of miracles, Mama kitty (Spicy) took to the baby like it was one of hers.
I brought her and the baby home with me. She's a wonderful cat, and an answer to my many prayers. (Photos to follow, I KNOW DavidShag is sitting on the edge of his seat!)
The wild blackberries are ripening. I went out and picked enough to make some jam. My hands are all scratched up, and I had to make sure Dekeon and Gauge didn't eat all the berries before I got the jam made, but it was worth it.
The wild berries are much smaller than cultivated, but they are sweeter... yummmmmmm!
Local news, Kristen Armstrong (the first ever Boisean to win a gold medal) is on her way home to Boise. I think the whole city is planning on being at the airport to greet her. I plan to NOT be on the roads tomorrow. The traffic will be horrendous. Welcome home Kristen!
A young man who went to school here in Emmett is at the Olympics, throwing the discus. He is my son, Nick's age.
OH and today is supposed to get up to 100 degrees... oh joy of joys. BIG HUGS, Steph August 11 I miss all the good stuff...Because I was in Seattle, I missed my High School Reunion. From what I've heard everyone had a great time. I've been enjoying the photos and here's one of my favorite video clips. Jack (who promised to make me laugh so hard I peed my pants) did an impromptu "lap dance." Enjoy....
July 31 Hi there!I'm back! Other than missing my children and furry kids, I'm not sure why I'm happy to be home. lol
When I left Boise it was 106, and I landed in Seattle to 68 degrees. The whole month I was there, I think 78 was as hot as it got.
It is one of THE most gorgeous places on Earth. Lush green, mild summer temps and when it rained it was a slight drizzle or mist. I drove back home and the Snoqualmie Pass was even more, (if possible) beautiful than the Seattle area.
I forgot my camera, but ended up buying a disposable, and I hope some of the photos will be good ones.
Most of my time was spent taking care of Gauge, but, I did take some time to myself.
The Seattle Art Museum is having an exhibition of Impressionist Artists. I really love Impressionist paintings.
There's something so wonderful, exciting, about being able to get up close (close enough to touch, if I wanted to get arrested...) and see the actual brush strokes that were made by Renoir, Monet, Mary Cassatt, Cezanne, etc.
I found that I love, Monet, but not Manet, and a print of a Renoir can never, ever, be as breathtakingly beautiful as the real thing. I'm a long time fan of Renoir, but the whole collection was fantastic. It's talent and beauty that feeds my soul.
I took my time and spent most of the day in the museum. I enjoyed most of the permanent collections they have. It's amazing to think that a vase, etc, was made by some one over 500 years before Christ was born, and yet, there I was looking at it all these years later.
There was a very cool Cat head figure from Egypt. I wish they made a reproduction for the gift shop.
When I was finished I walked around Pikes Place Market, and downtown.
I ate at the museum. They have a restaurant, "Taste," I was there during happy hour, which was fun because the portions were small and I could taste several things. I had the, griddled cheese sandwich (3 kinds of cheese) and roasted tomato soup, a cheesy leek dip (cheddar and smoked curado cheese gratin) and for dessert I tried their, stone fruit panzanella with creme fraiche. I took some of it home but ate all the dessert. I was soooooooooo good!
HAPPY HOUR DAILY FROM 3PM-6PM. ALL ITEMS $5 oysters on the half shell | black pepper granita* 2.5 each rosemary frites & rémoulade 5 griddled cheese & roasted tomato soup 8 pork sliders | skagit river ranch bbq pork, pickled cucumber, slaw 9 heads & hooves terrine | braised pork in gelée, tarragon mustard, cornichons 9 cheesy leeks | beecher’s cheddar & smoked curado gratin 8 tuna melt | st. jude albacore tartare, brioche, three lily soubise* 10 curry mussels | coconut milk, lemongrass, thai basil 11 woodstone pizza | smoked paprika salumi, savory goat cheese, tomato confit & arugula pinenut toss 11 alsatian style flatbread | local fromage blanc, caramelized onion, bacon 10 salumi board | daily selection, castelvetrano olives 11 mini organic beef burger & frites* | cumin gouda, dijon aioli, pickled jalapeño* 6 | 9 | 12 local cheese | 6 | 9 | 12 mt. townsend creamery "cirrus" – cow’s milk | parsley-almond pesto quillisascut "ash tome" – goat’s milk | fresh cherry & port compote the rogue creamery "rogue river blue" – cow’s milk | tiny’s organic apple stone fruit panzanella | crème fraîche 7 inside out sassafras float l sassafras ice cream, vanilla soda, vanilla cookies 7 craig hetherington l executive chef zack chamberlain l sous chef
18% gratuity is added to parties of 6 or more. I then went to my favorite store in the Chinatown area, Uwajimaya's. About a block from Uwajimaya's is a little store that sells crepes. You can buy them sweet or savory filled. I bought some for everyone to have either later that night or in the morning. I had strawberry, with custard and whipped cream. My son and his girlfriend had a filling of bananas, custard, chocolate and whipped cream. Lil guy had strawberry and whipped cream. It's called, Unicorn Crepes. I recommend you try them if you are in the area.
That night was a big parade downtown and I got caught in it just as it was starting. The way I was supposed to take to get back to the apartments was blocked off. Thank heavens for GPS!
I'm not going to go into the drama and other crap that went on while I was there... at least until I'm more calm about it. I will say that my son and Gauge are here at home for awhile, and although it was not her first choice, his girlfriend came with us all.
Nick, my son broke his hand about a week ago. It was such a bad break that they put pins and mesh to heal it. He's out of commission for at least a month or two from what they have told us.
Even with having Dekeon here (now age 3) it seems that I need to rethink just how "child proof" the house is. Gauge (20 months) is finding all kinds of things that I didn't notice... but, it's so good to have him here!
Thanks for checking on me, and for your love, prayers and support. I feel very fortunate to have such wonderful friends. BIG HUGS, Steph July 14 Hey!I'm sure you are sick of hearing the song I have on here, but, I'm out of town, and my only access to a computer is a public one, so, I can't change it.
I'm in lovely Seattle. I wish the circumstances were better and I was here for fun and relaxation, but, I'm not.
I will say, I'm glad I'm an old "kittycat" who doesn't cause a lot of drama in the lives of those around me. In fact, I don't like 'bad' drama, that most young people seem to thrive on. I guess that's why I never enjoyed soap operas.
I'm here keeping my youngest grandson safe and happy while his parents decide if they are going to stay in each other's lives.
On the upside... I have gorgeous views, and the weather when I landed on the 4th of July was only 68. I don't think it's been much over 75 at the most. It's HEAVEN!
The other morning I was driving back from the grocery store and there was a light drizzle. The lush green and light rain did my soul good.
I hope you are all safe and happy.
(Greg, dear friend, I know exactly what you are talking about and how you feel. No matter how old they get, we will always worry. One day they will understand why.)
BIG HUGS, Steph July 02 What a World.....Arrrrggggggggg I'm melting... mellllltiiiing... What a world...
Except, I would love some one to throw a bucket of cold water on me.
We've been breaking heat records around here. I'll be happy for it to go below 100.
Now, I'm going to go sit in front of a fan. Dinner will be salad, and sandwiches.
I better not hear any complaining! lol BIG HUGS, Steph
June 25 Sunsets I just saw the most beautiful, soul satisfying sunset.
I was driving home from Boise, just as the sun was setting. There is a spot where you parallel the river, which is lined with trees and a field of horses. The horses were running back and forth, enjoying the cool evening breeze, and the sky was ablaze with neon colors of fuchsia, magenta, neon orange, royal purples, and fireball yellows. I can't tell you how gorgeous it was against the background of the trees which were silhouetted in black against the sky.
My only regrets are that I was alone and had no camera. This really is a gorgeous Earth we live on. BIG HUGS, Steph June 16 Reunions...I'm going to expose a well kept secret... are you ready? Are you sure? I mean you may want to sit down...
OK, OK, here it is... (have you taken your heart meds today?) Just checking...
Here it is... I'M OLD! (Waits for you to pick yourself up off of the floor) Yep, hard to believe huh?
This summer is my High School 30th Reunion. I'm torn because I went to 2 different High Schools in 2 different cities, and have dear friends in both.
I've been catching up with some friends by phone, and some through, Classmates.com.
My old friend, Craig and I had a really nice phone conversation in which I was sure to let him know that he's a lucky _astard, because his wife hasn't killed him yet. (Always a good sign)
I left some comments on "Jack's" profile in classmates. I thought I'd share a few of our messages to each other. Just so you know what kind of high class, serious minded people we are....
You left 3 comments on my site. am i going to have to get a restraining order out against you?
jack I did?? Dang, I need to brush up on my stalker skills!
You going to the reunion? Steph
Heck yes. I'm the emcee, you silly poop! And you'd better be there cuz I'm going to make you pee your pants laughing!
jack
Well, thanks for the warning! I better go buy a box of Depends... Will one box be enough?
I'm nothing if not prepared. Depends... Poise... Depends, Poise? hmmmmmmm Steph
I anxiously away his input on just how many and what brand I'll need to use...
I live such a glamorous life!
BIG HUGS, Steph
June 12 Cherry Festival Time Again!Time hasn't just flown by, it's sped by with the speed of light! It's Cherry Festival time again!
And even though I've been sicker than a dog (where did they come up with that saying?), stuck in bed for 3 days, I got my sorry butt out of bed and went to buy a lemonade and some spicy Mexican food.
I even toyed with the idea of hooking up an IV and getting the lemonade that way... but, then I couldn't taste it!
My youngest daughter and her friends were one of the first ones at the rides. It seems that riding the "Zipper" as many times as possible is the main goal... well, that and NOT throwing up.
It seems that Seth, didn't make it. I guess he went on it again later, so, It must not have been that bad... Kids!
BIG HUGS, Steph June 05 Gardening in the rainThe weather this spring has been strange. It went from hot to cold, to wind and rain.
I have tons of flowers and garden stuff to get into the ground, and I got tired of waiting for the perfect day.
I decided that I would plant most of it this past Wednesday, come rain or shine.... it was raining, all day.
I have to say, that it was fun! I got soaking wet, and it reminded me of when I was little, playing in the park making mud pies.
I had Alli, (My daughter's Golden Retriever Puppy) out there with me and she was having fun too.
This is Alli on a dry day....
Meet, "Bubba". He's the newest addition to our family.
We had a huge storm go through here a couple of weeks ago, and the neighbor kids found him. After some shedding of blood (the kids), and some nasty bites, (inflicted on the kids) they finally caught him and brought him to me.
It's taken some time but he's finally decided he likes being loved and pampered.
I've become, "mama".
Well that's what's been going on here. How have you all been doing? BIG HUGS, Steph
May 29 Future Son-in-laws and Homeless in SeattleI have a photo posted of my "future" son-in-law... Gabe, he's 4 yrs old and in love with my oldest daughter (she's 16). LOL
His older sister a friend of my daughters. Their family was talking the other night about how important it was to find the right person, and falling in love... He spoke up and said, "I already found MY girl... Alaura!"
I took their picture last year, so, I told them that I needed to take their picture again. Nate is all for it, Gabe starts to walk away saying, no.... I tell him, "it's for Alaura..."
He turned right around and posed nicely...
My son Nick is a big Jimi Hendrix fan, so, I took him to Renton, where he's buried and they have the Memorial. I posted a few photos of that too.
On a different note... The other night when I was in Seattle, I went down to Pikes Place to show Amber (she's never been.) Parking there is a nightmare. I found a lot that was 10.00, but it was only open for 2 more hours. While I was reading the info on the pay box, I had a homeless guy come up and tell me that for 3.00 I could park on the street for 2 hours and some one was just pulling out. He offered to stand in the space so I could get to it. I took him up on his offer.
He didn't ask me for anything, and he reminded me of a friend of my husband's who's bipolar when he's off his meds.
Amber was freaked out that I would even talk to him. I appreciated his help.
I bought him coffee and a sandwich. While I was inside the place he found Amber and was talking to her. He asked where she was from and she told him, Santa Rosa, CA. He was familiar with the area... which really freaked her out.
I was going to go find him to give him the food, but he was with Amber. I could see the panic on her face, so I gave it to him and we left.
He was so excited and grateful for the food. I know I don't have to deal with homeless all the time, so maybe that's why I can be calm about it, but it was embarrassing to hear what other people were calling and saying to the homeless in the area.
Just thinking.... BIG HUGS, Steph May 28 I'm back... I think!Within a space of 2/3 weeks I've, flown to Santa Rosa, CA, drove to Oakland to rent a mini van, drove that mini van from Santa Rosa, through the state of Oregon up to Seattle, WA, with my son, his girlfriend and their lil guy Gauge. While in Seattle, he got a great job and we found, after days of searching, what seems to be a nice apartment for them to live in. We then turned around and drove back to Santa Rosa, CA.
While I was gone my other grandson, Dekeon was in the hospital, but he's doing great now.
I'll save you all the drama/headaches and crying I've done. I will say that I have no respect or understanding for Parents, Adults who are judgmental, hypocritical, and who verbally abuse not only their daughter, but my son, and then try to lecture me and mine about family values.... uh huh, I sure listened.
My son, Amber and Gauge have moved to Seattle. I know that Nick is excited and I hope that Amber finds she likes it too. It was hard for her to move because her mother and father did everything they could to make her stay behind without Nick.
It wasn't pretty.
I wish I had pictures from Oregon, which reminded me over and over again why I love the Oregon Coast so much, but, we had to drive at night so the baby would sleep.
When I flew back to Idaho, we turned around and drove to Twin Falls, Idaho. My daughter's fast pitch softball team made it to State again, and that's where they have the tournament this year.
They didn't place in the top 3, but did a great job.
My daughter was awarded, "All conference, 1st team." Which is a huge honor. The award is voted on by all the coaches in the conference.
I'm always proud of her, and tell her that as long as she's having fun that's what counts.
"State" lasted 4 days, and although Twin Falls is out in the middle of sage brush land... it does have the canyon and the Shoshone Falls. When the water levels are at it's fullest, the amount of water going over the falls is the same as Niagara Falls. While we were there it was at approx half.
There were some guys base jumping off of the bridge so I stopped to watch and take some photos.
One guy landed to fast and hard.... broke his leg and ankle.
Another guy who was one of the last to jump, got caught on the bridge. He was still hanging there when I left. I'm not sure why they hadn't pulled him up yet, it was a good half hour.
I came home to pot luck banquets, end of school stuff and a dirty house... oh joy.
The last day of school is tomorrow!
Please have prayer and send good thoughts for Nick and Amber. She really did have a very difficult time deciding to move. She was even threatened to be cut off of her family.
I have no idea how some people behave the way they do.
I love you all... thanks for being here for me and checking in. BIG HUGS, Steph
April 26 Gone for awhile...Life is taking another pot-shot at me, and those I love, so, I will be gone for awhile.
Feel free to talk amongst yourselves and help yourself to anything you can find in the fridge or freezer.
BIG HUGS, Steph April 22 Happy Earth Day! (and) A few potty musings...Happy Earth Day! I live in a very small town that has yet to even care about recycling or helping Mother Earth.
I had saved a bunch of old batteries and when I called to find out how to dispose of them, I was told to "just throw them away."
NOT the right answer. Maybe one of these days they will catch on.
Now, a few potty musings...
I always thought that once my kids grew up I just might be able to use the bathroom alone... I was wrong. I find that cats and a puppy are just as bad as my children ever were. I can't close the door without some one having a fit, meowing, barking, scratching at the door that some how once closed must mean that there's a party of the century going on inside the bathroom. I imagine they have visions of fresh tuna and fillet mignon being served and they must surely be missing out.
At least that would explain their behavior and the little paws reaching pitifully and pathetically under the door.
Last but not least. Have you ever been so tired that you get up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom, not remembering that you have done so, sit yourself down, and fall asleep on the toilet? Only to fall so deeply asleep that the next thing you know you are falling, taking a header off of said toilet, being glad that there was a rug and towel on the floor to help break your fall?
Ummmmmm.... yeah, me neither.....
BIG HUGS, Steph
April 20 Another week starting...Last week was difficult. We had Mary Ann's Memorial.
They had a wonderful slide show of her life. Pictures of her as a little girl, growing up, a beautiful bride, loving mother, proud grandma, and even photos of her with her family during the last days of her life.
After the music and reverend/pastor spoke, they opened it up to anyone who wanted to get up and say something.
Public speaking has never bothered me, but, I knew I was going to cry, and told them so beforehand.
When I first met her the thing I noticed was how very kind and genuine she was. She always made me feel loved and accepted for who I was (which is something I strive for with my family and friends).
I told about our trip to California, how with both of us loving thrift shops and antique stores, that every time we would stop for a break, we would hit at least one shop or store of the area. If I had been with anyone else, they would not have enjoyed that like we did.
We took turns driving and talking (about crazy Italian families, and dealing with growing up in one).
I had a wonderful time, and even got to meet some of her family (Her sister Cookie, brother-in-law Ron, her daughter Sandy and her children.) I liked them all very much.
I said that I knew how much she loved her family, and her husband Daryl. How they were meant to be together, each complimenting the other.
When they were first married, and would have an argument, she was used to yelling, screaming, (the way her parents did, the way MY parents do). Darryl would quietly walk away and come back later when she was calm and then discuss things. She learned that he was not going to argue/fight with her that way, and from that she learned patience, understanding and a better way to communicate.
He was the calm in her storm. They were together for 49 years, a true loving team.
She loved the Lord, and would always strive to be closer to him.
To me and all those who knew her she was a wonderful example of Christian love and charity. She served others, even when she was sick and in pain. While doing so, she never, ever made anyone feel like they were a burden.
One woman told that even in her last days on earth, they called to go visit her, and arrived to find she had made a special dinner for them all.
Her granddaughter spoke about her (and made me cry). Her husband spoke and told how grateful he was to have had 49 years with her. He told that she had a rough childhood and how her finding the Lord had helped her find and receive the gift of giving/serving others.
Her daughter, Sandy spoke, her other daughter Suzie sent an email (she was able to be here and spend time with Mary Ann before she died, but had to get back to Alabama).
Her letter made even the pastor cry.
The memorial was not only a tribute to Mary Ann, but, she wanted it to be a "preaching of the word" because her faith in the Lord was so strong, she wanted to share it with everyone.
After we all got together for a meal that Mary Ann had planned. I sat with old friends and other friends who knew her and we had a great time talking and reminding each other of different stories and things that she had done.
She made you feel special, loved and accepted.
I believe it's only her body that's been left behind and that she's with Christ, but, I still miss her.
I hope to strive to be more like her, and to be a better friend and influence on those around me.
On a different note, I was asked why "hubby" was upset that I won the Nintendo Wii... it was because if he had won it, he would have not let anyone else use it, because it was HIS. This way since I won with my name, everyone gets to play it. lol
Now, for some comedy. Jade found this and I love, love, LOVE it! Who knew Engineers could be so funny and sexy! lol Enjoy....
BIG HUGS, Steph
April 15 Tax Day!Happy, "Your taxes are due and I hope you are getting a refund instead of owing, Tax Day."
Mine have been done for a long time. I know I'm going to get in trouble for saying this, but I enjoy doing my taxes. In fact I do a lot of my friend's and family's taxes too.
I know, I know, I'm weird. lol
My old buddy, Bob, loves country western music... this song playing is for him...
Well it is country! BIG HUGS, Steph April 12 Happy Spring thoughtsI am sick to death of sickness and death. Losing loved ones and friends is never easy, I just wish it hadn't been so often and close to each other.
My dear friend Mary Ann died last week. She's been fighting cancer, and the last time we visited, I asked what I could do. She told me that she was ready to go home, and to pray for God to take her. I know she's happy and no longer in pain, but the selfish part of me misses her and is feeling sorry for myself.
I could go on, there are more deaths, and serious illnesses in the family and among friends, but I'm not going to.
I hereby forbid any of you from getting sick and or dying. There now, you don't want to upset me, so, you all have to stay healthy and alive! lol
I'm trying to focus on the positive. Hence the goofy music I'll be playing on here. I hope that no one will be offended, especially by Monday's song of "Mama's got her boobs out."
Sooooo.... Today is gorgeous and should get up to 65 degrees!
Yesterday I got a phone call from my bank. I won a Nintendo Wii! My hubby is pissed because he was the one that put my name in, (after he put his in) but I won. lol
I see all kinds of bulbs and flowers getting ready to bloom.
My children are all healthy and happy.
I live in a beautiful world with friends that are even more beautiful, wonderful and loving.
Please add to my list, and tell me something positive, fun or funny. Laughter is the BEST!
BIG HUGS, Steph April 09 What the heck?I woke up this morning to SNOW on the ground!
SNOW in April? What the heck?
I blame Jane...
BIG HUGS, Steph
 MySpace Graphics April 05 Santa Rosa, San Jose, Spring BreakThis year's spring break trip was fun and sad at the same time.
My youngest daughter and I flew to San Jose, CA. rented a car and drove up to Santa Rosa. We spent most of the week with my younger son, his girl friend and their little guy, Gauge.
For those who don't know, Gauge was born 4 months early and weighed in at 1lb. He truly is a miracle baby, who's here because of God, the many prayers and faith of wonderful people all over my real world and my blog world. As you can see, he's doing great! He still has to be on oxygen at night, but, that's about it. We are blessed. He's a fantastic baby, and was fun to take care of.
I was a naughty grandma and let him really have fun at dinner times, as you can see by the photos.
Santa Rosa was in the 60's and 70's. I was running around with short sleeves and people were asking, "Aren't you cold?" lol Heck, that's sunbathing weather!
I had fun hitting some Nurseries, (bought myself a new Bay tree), and with GPS in the rental car, took advantage of just seeing the area.
When I lived in Yakima, WA, there were orchards and vineyards. I didn't realize how much I've missed them until you see those beautiful rolling hills and the gorgeous vineyards.
Every where you look it's green, lush and beautiful.
Charles Shulz, who drew the 'Charlie Brown' comics, lived in Santa Rosa. After his death they opened a Museum, and a huge ice rink. I convinced my daughter to come with me to the museum. She was bored to death, but, at least she can say she's been there. lol
We hit Chinatown in San Fran. Did some shopping, and had dinner. It's one of my favorite places. After dinner we drove to a little Italian deli/bakery that has THE best desserts.
I drove back to San Jose to spend the last few days of vacation with my father. He had been there taking care of his oldest brother, my Uncle John.
Uncle John died quietly in his sleep. He didn't want a big funeral and is buried in the family graveyard, which is near the bottom of where the family ranch used to be.
It's sad to think that of the 6 children in the family, 3 are left. My father is the youngest. It is always an eye opener that when you die, you leave behind everything earthly, and your loved ones are left with memories and deciding what to do with the things in this life that were important to you.
There was some scandal. The Philippine woman who was a live-in care giver, convinced him to change lawyers and his will towards the end, when he was not quite all there. She had herself put in the will for 1/4 of everything (which is a lot) and if one of my other aunts hadn't been around as much as she was, she would have married him, thus taking everything.
This woman then tells my father that she was not only John's caregiver but was taking care of him sexually as well...
What kind of person does things like this and then tells the person's family member?
Needless to say, shit hit the fan.
People and greed... it's not something I hope I ever have to deal with, or feel.
While we were in the area, my dad took us around and showed us the places of his childhood, (and some of mine). Then he showed us the property that was owned by the family.
The first place he bucked hay, his first girlfriend's family home, etc.
I showed my daughter the place where the ranch house used to be, and the drive way, hills and eucalyptus trees, that my brother and I would play on. I showed her, Olivera Egg Ranch. My Grandmother's family owns it. I remember going there as a child to see cousins.
I found a brick from the old chimney, and brought it home with me. I got some funny looks at the airport. They finally had me check it through (it was too close to a weapon.)
It was fun to be able to show my daughter a bit of my past. Because of my father and mother's tendency to move constantly, I'm not usually able to do that.
Enough of my ra |
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