Milking Cows

I just had to post this because Carrie posted a similar picture from her families recent trip to the zoo. Ha ha ha... too cute! I see they are way more sophisticated these days... they give you a bucket!

I always say... I was born to milk cows!

More Miles

I had another really great ride tonight. Oh I'm so falling in love with her all over again. She is just a gem!!!! I never before enjoyed riding her as much as I have this week! This ride was even better than the last. We went on different trails than before... mountainous hills, beautiful valleys, blazing through overgrown territory in the heart of the forrest, over logs, under branches, across the creek, and out into wide open prairie-like fields where the grass was as tall as my horse. There were some trails on posted property where my friend has permission to ride. They are extremely nice wide groomed trails where all-terrain vehicles are forbidden. This is prime hunting ground in its time. There are tree stands and such and even a few cameras that flash with motion sensors. That was a real treat... she jumped, but didn't miss a step. I think it shocked me more than her. We chuckled wondering what the land owner will say when he sees the look on our faces in those pictures.

Keith has had our camera because he was at the Pocono race last weekend. He's been taking it to work to show off his photos. I'm going to have to steal it back and take some pictures of our rides. I need to get a small saddle bag to take along such things for our rides. The last time out we saw a red-tailed hawk from very close... a few days earlier I spied a bald eagle nearby. The neighbors of the farm say there is a black bear estimated to be about 400 pounds who has frequented their property. I'm not real keen on meeting up with him, but I'm intrigued to know they are nearby.

Back In The Saddle Again

I RODE MY PONY TODAY!!!! SHE WAS A PEACH!!!! I'M ELATED!!!!

You have to understand that SHE hasn't been ridden since springtime and I haven't ridden for what... a YEAR or more!!!!

She kicked and fussed for about the first 5 minutes. I think she really hates having to wear a saddle that is tightened. We went up a really big hill and she forgot whatever it was that was annoying her. We walked the countryside for over an hour, up and down big mountainous hills, and even into the creek. I've never actually ridden her in water before, but she tramped right into it and was rather surprised to find her feet wet. She hadn't been watching where she was going, but too busy putting her nose where it didn't belong... in the butt of Sir, the horse in front of us. None the less, I am quite the proud rider. She did WAY better than I had expected all around.

I can feel tightening in my legs and shoulders already. Oh I am SO going to feel this in the morning. (But it is SO worth it!!!) I already took some precautionary tylenol! I might need a handicap spot to park tomorrow... I may or may not be able to walk... But it feels good to be so active and pursuing what I love... riding my horse.

My friend took a couple pictures when we got back. She couldn't stop talking about just how CUTE my Penny is. I know... she is... what can I say? Thanks :) I love love love her!!!! But alas I forgot to ask if she would be able to e-mail those to me or if she has to get them developed. So... if they aren't too bad... I will post them when I get them.

Tuesdays With Jen... My Memoirs

It's still early in August and we have already blown through a few birthdays in the first 4 days. Seriously, August has always been like the month of birthdays, not just for my family, but for friends and acquaintences as well. For instance, I know of at least 3 people who share my very own birthday. I know of at least 4 that share my Dad's birthday PLUS someone who celebrates an anniversary that day too.

I remember as a child celebrating the August birthdays. Mom made a tiered cake. The biggest lower level was for Grandpa's birthday (29th), then another layer for Dad's (13th), then a layer for me (17th), and a layer for Amanda (16th). I do believe she wrote our names on each layer with icing. That was a cool idea Mom.

When Amanda introduced me to John, who is now her husband. I liked him for two reasons. 1) He opened both my car door and hers (gentleman) and more significantly 2) We share our birthday - August 17th. COOL!

I always thought it would be really cool to have a gigantic birthday bash in the month of August and invite everyone I know who has a birthday this month... but alas it's never happened. Maybe because its mid-summer and everyone is so busy with summer activities? Vacations? Farm Show? Fairs? Etc. And now starting to prepare for back-to-school already!

So let me give a big shout out to all my August Birthday Pals!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!

Blessings Monday

We recently got a letter from my Aunt who lives in Arizona. I try to keep in touch with her by writing occasional letters. She is not physically well these days, so it is a challenge for her to return a written response, although I know that she loves to exchange letters.

The letter explained the multiple physical barriers she is enduring at this stage in her life. She is basically bed-ridden and relies on her husband to cook, clean, and care for her.

Along with the letter was an unexpected gift of money with a note to buy something that we have both been wanting. Oh the possibilities. Oh the fun in dreaming them up! We sat on it and prayed on it for a while.

As we were preparing for our incoming guests last week, we decided what things we have both been wanting... a new area rug and a small tv stand for the living room. Our living room decor includes deep red walls, a grey couch, white full length curtains, and some black accent pieces of furniture.

The correspondence and the gift were appreciated blessings. We are grateful to have the opportunity to splurge on a little something that we have been wanting. THANK YOU!!!! God is SO good and provides in such unforseen ways. I love it!!!

Do you have blessings to share? Stop over to Down On The Farm and share with us! Thanks Marci for hosting once again.

Sneak-Peak Sunday

Handy Hubby has been at the Nascar Race in the Poconos all weekend. I've talked to him a couple of times and he is bubbling over with excitement. He got a lot of autographs, including Keifer Sutherland, the grand marshall for the race and a bunch of drivers too. He's on his way home now... I'm glad he was able to go. He really enjoys that stuff.

Why wasn't I at the race? Well, I had committed to attending a Beth Moore conference that was being held in Louiseville, KY and in over 700 locations world-wide via simalcast. Myself and four other ladies from church signed up to attend at another local church a couple months ago. If you aren't familar with Living Proof Ministries, follow the link and get acquainted. What I love about Beth Moore is that she is so very real. Her work is not about her. It's about God and she takes absolutely NO credit for her work. She speaks most specifically to women with a humorous, down-to-earth attitude. She's comical and sincere... and it was a fantastic weekend of praise and study. AND... I love that I ran into my very own physician in attendance. It's nice to know that your PCP is a godly person. I knew that about her before, but it was more confirmation to see her actively seeking the truth... right before my eyes. Just to share one simple key point from the program that has settled deep within my heart... Guard your heart because Satan is seeking to snatch the word from it and HE CANT HAVE IT!!!! I never thought of it quite like that before. The Lord tells us to write his word on our heart so we do not depart from it, but it is true that Satan seeks to take our focus from that. Simple, yet profound.

What else have I done??? I spend some more time in study and prayer. Relaxed. Enjoyed the peace and quiet. Let the birds out for a bit. They are silly... they put themselves back in their cage. I watered the plants. Did some laundry. Met Amanda and John for dinner and chat. I was thinking about doing some work, but never did. I see I'm getting a ton of spam on my work e-mail, so I didn't want to open it up at home. I get it on my Blackberry. That's how I know it's there.

So now it's late on Sunday. It's time to call it a day and kiss the weekend goodbye. My darling husband will be home sometime between now and the crack of dawn... probably closer to the latter. I missed him so much.

An Award

I am very humbled to have been granted a blogger award. Thank you Marcie at Down On The Farm. You are so kind!

Once an award is received,the rules are as follows:

1. Put the logo on your blog .

2. Add a link to the person who awarded you.

3. Nominate at least 7 other blogs.

4. Add links to those blogs on your blog.

5. Leave a message for your nominees on their blog.

I am delighted to share this award with the following ladies whose blogs I read regularly and find to be uplifting, interesting, and absolutely worthwhile. Check them out for yourselves!

1. Lizzies Home - For brilliant writing style
2. The Homespun Heart - For brilliant insight into hospitable living
3. With All That I've Been Given - For brilliant cookie recipes
4. Renaissance - For brilliant photography
5. Praise And Coffee - For brilliant daily devotions
6. Scribbit - For brilliant ideas, giveaways, and recipes
7. Making A House A Home - For brilliant ideas on homemaking

I love these ladies! You will too! Thanks again Marcie, for you would have been on my list too if you had not already been granted the award!

Blessings Monday

Our little nephew is quite the blessing! Only a couple days with him and we found ourselves giggling, singing, watching Barney, and chasing the little guy. We didn't have to compete for his attention. He gave it freely. His smile lights up the room. He's very chatty and opinionated at that. He was infatuated with our refrig, though he never took anything out. He just wanted to open and close it.

We are so blessed to have had some special time with this little guy. What a grand blessing.

Check out other Blessings Monday posts at Down On The Farm. C'mon, you have something to share don't you?! Thanks for hosting Marcie.

The Reason For The Trip

I just wanted to see a hippopotomus. I remember seeing one a LONG LONG LONG LONG time ago at the Pittsburgh Zoo. These truly are interesting creatures. I loved when it would submerge itself in the water. It would stay under for several minutes, then circle around and look at the onlookers... and do it again. We watched it for a good long time. I don't know why, but I have been wanting to see one of these for a long time. When we heard that there was one at the Cleveland Zoo, we decided it was time to pay them a visit.


It's really a huge zoo. If you can go, do it. We were there a good 7 hours and were never bored. There is also an indoor rain forest, which is pretty neat.

These Ones Are NOT Pets!!!!

We went on a little weekend trip to the Cleveland Metropolitan Zoo last weekend... or was it the weekend before? I can't remember. Anyway, it was a grand time. We had a weekend long date. Fantastic!!! We got to pet the stingrays and a shark. that was really neat! Keith got to feed the seals some fish and also some nectar to the birds... very cool! I really like the camels. I rode one when we were on our first date (at the Cincinatti Zoo). They had camel rides, but I passed on that this time. It is a really cool experience though. I recommend that everyone try it at least once.

Tweeters

We have had a bird cage for a long time. We recently decided to fill it. The blue parakeet is named "Gonzo" and the yellow is "Sunshine" although Amanda says we should have named her "Beaker." That would have been appropriate, but Sunshine fits her so well. Maybe the next one Manda.

They are easy to care for. Sometimes they are messy with their food, but I keep the shop vac nearby, so clean up is a cinch. Keith is trying to teach them to talk. All the literature says it is possible to teach them, but it might take a long time. I can positively report that at least one of them attempts to mock K's whisteling like a cat-call at them.

We let them out to fly every couple of days. The cats enjoy watching them, but surprisingly have not bothered them... at least not that we have noticed. So far they are good pets.

Say CHEESE!!!!

Is it just me or does it look like this big grizzly guy is posing for photos? Maybe it's his "senior portraits" ???

Ponies Parks and Zoo... What more could a little boy want?!

Penny & Sir

Slippery Slides at the Park

Petting Kangaroos!

Our nephew, Hayden, and his mother (of course) payed us a visit this weekend. His proud Uncle Keith spoiled him rotten!!! First was a trip to the Pittsburgh Zoo... then Aunt J.J. took him to pet the ponies (and even sit on one)... and then the picnic dinner at the park! He left this morning with his new black-bear-back-pack, bug puzzle, and other goodies. We don't get to see him but a couple times each year so we are most impressed that at 2 years old he even knows our names... What a delight. His mom is quite aware that we are glad to visit with her, but the main attaction is the little-one. We were sad to see them go this morning.

Blessings Monday

I have recently been blessed with a little R&R. Oh how I long for that, especially during the summer months. While most families are planning excursion for mid-summer, I find myself so swamped at work that taking time off would simply make more stress for me upon return. None the less, Handy Hubby and I were BOTH off Friday and Saturday and we made the most of it!

Thursday evening we packed a few things, made some reservations, and hit the road. First stop, Bruno's Pizzaria, for dinner. They have the best italian dinners for very reasonable prices. Next stop, Cleveland, Ohio. We splurged on a hotel room, which is not something we frequently do... but it was oh-so-worth-it! We asked for a King size bed, but they said we'd have to take a room with two-doubles. Fine. But when we arrived they DID have a room with a King size bed and it was on the Concierge Floor. I never heard of such a thing, but we quickly learned that those on the Concierge Floor had a private lounge with complimentary snacks and non-alcoholic beverages. They did have a full bar, do-it-yourself, on the honor system to be billed to the room. These accomodations were WAY more than we asked for!!! The hotel room was clean, and very comfortable.

While we were in Cleveland, we visited the Cleveland Metro-park Zoo, the Botanical Gardens, and the Natural History Museum. More on those later.

I just need to say that it was a fantastic trip. Keith says I slept too much at the Hotel, but I'm telling you... R&R is what this girl needed! I am so blessed to have the time to spare and a few extra bucks in my pocket for such an occasion. The weather was sunny, comfortable, and the company was fantastic.

Do you have blessings to share? Stop over to Down On The Farm and share with us! Thanks Marci for hosting once again.

p.s. I found my camera!!! Pictures are forthcoming!!!

Thankful Thursday

I am thankful for the season of summer... and I never thought I'd say that. I am not actually a big fan of hot and sticky weather, but this summer has been rather pleasant I think. We have had a good mix of rain, sunshine, and breezy days. I think the lack of drought definitely makes a world of difference in the season.

I'm grateful that the Lord created seasons and has allowed me to live in an area where I may witness the changes in a significant way. My favorite season is fall because the weather is comfortable and the leaves change so beautifully. My next favorite is spring because after a long time of cold and dreary comes new life springing forth in abundance. Summer and winter have always been a toss-up for me. I like the snow as long as the sun is shining and the wind isn't blowing. But summers like this year... gotta love it.

I like to participate in Thankful Thursday, but I'm not always good at linking up. Thank you Peggy for reminding me. Usually it's because I'm in a time-crunch of sorts... But I do want to recognize the host, Iris over at Sting My Heart and invite ya'll to participate as well. Check it out!!!

Workplace Humor

I have to tell these true stories, N-O-T because I have a big head, but because I can see the humor in them...

This was my conversation with the VP whom my boss answers to. You know... the bosses boss.

Dr M: Jennifer, have you ever taken the personality test over in Human Resources?

Me: What personality test? I didn't know there was such a thing.

Dr M: Would you mind stopping over there and taking it?

Me: Um... is there a problem with my personality?

Dr M: No

Me: Is this a trick? Or a trap?

Dr M: No, we want to use it as a prototype for when we look for the new hire in the Department.

Me: Oh (giggle), that is very flattering. Thank you. But... Ok.

An hour later I'm conversing with a colleague at another institution. We are discussing the upcoming job posting for my Department... my conceited remark... "They want to clone me!" HA!!!

Moments later we are discussing how our work-load pretty much doubles in the summer months...

Me: It's crazy that we cannot take a summer vacation because there is too much work. I (sarcastically) told my boss that I'm planning to take vacation for the whole month of June next year.

Joe: How'd that go over?

Me: He said I had to go through him and then he laughed. I'm shocked! I'm giving him a years notice! A whole year I tell ya!

Joe: You know... if you timed it right you could take maternity leave.

Me: (laughing hysterically) Why didn't I think of that!!!??? I gotta go tell my boss!

Update... the boss laughed, shook his head, and said "WOW"

Tuesdays With Jen... My Memoirs

Since Saturday was the close of the annual Big Butler Fair, I thought it most appropriate to take ya'll back to my roots that once ran through that stomping ground. I was an exhibitor at the fair on numerous occasions. I had some friends who I stayed with who, now looking back, were probably not the best role models, but hey... it was a good time.

I showed my horse... a couple years Magnium, and after Penny came... her and her mother... AND Duke, my friends horse who is a smidge younger than Penny. We won many ribbons and a few bucks, but never enough to pay for the weeks worth of fun. But who's counting?!

When Penny was one year old, she went for her first trailer ride, it was an absolute disaster. A friend had a smaller two-horse trailer and agreed to haul her. It didn't take too long to get her into the trailer. She was fine. I was to follow to be sure that all was fine. About a third of a mile down the road she had a little meltdown. Oh my goodness!!!! I stopped my truck and was running down the road yelling S-T-O-P as loud and as frantic as I could. She had reared and got a foot into the manger, broke the snap, and somehow ended up with one hind leg over the divider and one broke through under it. She was pinned on her side. We were able to move the divider and free her legs so she could stand up. She was probably in shock, as was I. We decided that if we took her off the trailer that she would probably not ever want to get back on. So I tied her with two ropes and we tried again. This time we made it and she hauled fairly well. Lucky for her, she only had some very minor injuries. She scraped her leg a little and had a one-inch cut over her eye, but that's pretty much it. Poor thing.

The week was a success. We showed and we won... and when it was time to go home we had an alternative ride. I was worried about getting her on the ride home so I blindfolded her and practiced walking her all around. I purposely took her over logs so she would learn to lift her feet when I commanded. She learned really quick and was quite willing to lean on me without a fuss. When I walked her up to the trailer I said "UP" and she initially stepped up, except it was a ramp and she fell the rest of the way in. She landed in a nice big fluffy bed of shavings... and she didn't try to get up until I took the blindfold off. She has loaded and hauled quite well ever since.

This photo is duke, a year younger than Penny. He's so much more mature these days! He's still one of my favorite rides too!

Fantastic Summer Give-Away

Check out Monica's blog at The Homespun Heart for her Fun Summer Give-away! She's convinced Lands End to offer a generous gift-card because she really likes their swim suits... Stop over and enter for a chance to be one lucky winner!

My favorite is the Women's Regular 3-piece Dot Paisley Halter Tankini Swimsuit but you know... I'm into pink!

Where are the pictures?

I cannot find my camera. Has anyone seen it? UGH! I had all intentions of taking pictures of Penny last week, but couldn't find the camera. This evening I spent some time just brushing her and scratching her belly which she oh so loves! (you have no idea!) But no camera! Gosh, she was all prettied up too. Hmph!

Picked up a saddle, bridle, etc. from Rene'e's tonight. It feels kind of weird and a little bit sad taking those things and moving them to the new place. If I had already had those things on hand I could have rode her tonight. Hmmm... I need boots, helmet, jeans or riding pants, some fly spray and some leather cleaner for the saddle. I'm excited to be close to being back in the saddle; however I still miss riding with my pal, Rene'e.

Anyway... still looking for the camera. I wonder if I left it in her truck from the trip??? But I thought it was in the car? Oh I'm so confused.

Blessings Monday

As we come down off the high of celebrating the birth of our nation, it seems fitting to proclaim thankfulness for the blessing of freedom. As my pastor said this morning, freedom is a biblical topic. Christ offers us freedom from sin... that being bigger and better than the freedoms we usually recognize.

Those who fought and are fighting for the well-being of our country deserve to be honored. Thank you Dad. Thank you Keith. And thank you to other friends, family, and fellow American soldiers. My heart warms with patriotism at the thought of how the two closest men in my life took the time to serve our country. The freedom you protect is a precious blessing.

To realize the freedom we have in Christ is also very humbling. What a blessing we have in him! For God deserves the glory all the more!

Come join us at Blessings Monday hosted by Down On The Farm.