Mexico Mission - Day 2...Crossing the Border

Sunday, June 22

I had my alarm set for 7:20. One of my girls' alarms went off at 6. I'd forgotten how long it takes teenaged girls to get ready. After a quick breakfast at the hotel, we headed for the border. At Immigration, we were met with a few set-backs. Even though we would be in Mexico less than seven days, and were DONATING our time, the Mexican authorities demanded that we purchase work visas. These are good for 180 days, so I guess if we were inclined to go back in the next few weeks we'd be good to go. We also exchanged our dollars for pesos, then began the waiting process for them to give us the green light. Since Ft. Gibson had jumped through these hoops many times before, they had warned us to make sure and have a title for the trailer that we were using to transport our luggage. Dewey was also pulling a trailer and the authorities were not happy that they had a COPY of their title, not the original. Then they found that we had a carbon copy of our van rental agreement, not the original.....bad news. Waiting....waiting....waiting...then all of us were chased out of the cool, air-conditioned Immigration building accused of "loitering." Oh boy, we get to wait this out in the hot van! More waiting...it was approaching two hours...hey, why don't we pray about this? Great idea. About 10 minutes after the "Amen" Ted came strolling toward the van. He said, "I don't know what happened, but all of a sudden they changed their minds and said we could enter." Hmmm. We know what happened. Sadly, Dewey was not allowed to bring their trailer so we unloaded their trailer and crammed their belongings into ours. Paco, the preacher at Nuevo Laredo, Mexico had left services and come to meet us at the border. He assured the authorities that he would take care of the trailer until our return. Finally, we're on our way again. We arrived at church in Nuevo Laredo in time to hear the last 10 minutes of Paco's sermon (which we couldn't understand, anyway), then sang "I Will Call Upon the Lord" and "God is So Good" in Spanish and English. Afterwards we were greeted by the congregation and tried our best to communicate. We pulled out a bag of Beanie Babies to give to the children who were enthralled--no interpretation needed. Back into the van and more driving--about an hour to a rest stop where we all ate--our group from SS made sandwiches (we're cheap) while the others tried to order food at the restaurants. By the time we arrived at the beautiful Gran Hotel Ancira in Monterrey, we were too tired to go eat and ordered pizza. Right...Dominoes in Mexico. Bueno.

The Bible study text for our devos was Efesios 3:20-4:1. The thought for today is..."Todos" --"everything" or "all-encompassing." In the first three chapters of Ephesians, Paul talks about the spiritual blessings that are found in Christ. He gives thanks for a God who gives us everything we need (1:23). He acknowledges the fact that we are made alive through Christ, and that without Jesus we are all dead in sin (2:5). He tells us that we are "God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do (2:10). Ephesians 3:20 says, "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine..." TODOS

Independence Day

Forty-two people descended upon our house yesterday to celebrate the 4th of July. The forecast included chance of thunderstorms, but I was thankful that the meteoroligists got it wrong again, as it turned out to be a beautiful day. The pool was the big hit for the afternoon, then grilling began around 6:00. Plenty of hamburgers, hotdogs and ribs for everyone, accompanied by baked beans, veggies and dip, chips, watermelon, cantaloupe and more desserts than I can list. More swimming and a few firecrackers before dark. When the real fireworks began, we were surrounded on all sides with beautiful displays. Being on a hill, we had the perfect view in all directions. Sorry, no pictures from yesterday, since I was busy being hostess.

Thursday night Jeff, Neal and I took Lauren and Jacob to Skiatook for their big fireworks display. Since the lake is still high, the concert and fireworks were at the airport which is just across the road from Neal's shop. So we took popcorn and juice and met up with several of Neal's new co-workers for a front-row view of all the festivities. We sat in the beds of pickups and Jacob made a new friend, 6-yr. old Colby, who had all kinds of fun toys and flash lights that he shared with Jacob (or Jake, as he called him). We left before the show was over...it was getting late...past Lauren's bedtime...and we had forgotten to take her blankie and binky. She started saying, "mama...home" over and over, so we decided we'd seen enough.

Mexico Mission - Day 1...Driving

Saturday, June 21, 2008

Thirteen of us from Sand Springs joined 15 from Dewey, OK and about 44 from Ft. Gibson, OK on this trip to Mexico. Even though Janet made the comment today--"these Texans won't let us in just 'cause we're from Arkansas"--we really are all from Oklahoma (that must have been a previous life, Janet). Knowing we had a long drive ahead of us, we voted to leave EARLY. Amazingly enough, we had the rental van and trailer loaded and were leaving Sand Springs around 4:00 a.m.

After thirteen hours of off-and-on semi-sleep, travel Yahtzee, eating breaks, "circle of life" stops (that's when you stop to go to the bathroom and buy a bottle of soda or water, which leads to another bathroom stop and more soda and water, etc., etc.) and endless adjustments of the temperature and vents, we arrived in Laredo, Texas. We checked into the Marriott, cleaned up and went to Logan's Steak House for dinner. Afterwards, some went shopping, while others opted to go back to the hotel. Since I'm rooming with three 18 & 19 yr. olds, I decided this might be my only chance at the bathroom, so I went back to the room and had a leisurely shower. I'm rooming with Michelle (18), Kiley (18) and Amy (19)--"my girls." Michelle must have drawn the short straw, as she is my bed partner. By the time they returned to the room, I was already in bed and had begun to doze off. But I still heard Michelle laughing at the wall of pillows I had built between my side and hers.

Kristen...riding backwards and reading...I'd be sick as a dog.

Dare-devil Terri risks her life after Joel reads a warning on her pillow, "Do not use for sleeping purposes. For decorative use only." Oh, Terri, you're a brave, brave woman!

With very little room to stretch out on the seats, Kiley takes to the floorboard.

The Lord is My Strength

"Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms....If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ." 1 Peter 4:10-11





Although I've read this verse a multitude of times, it has never meant so much to me as it does today. I have always mentally translated the word "strength" to mean an inner strength, emotional strength, spiritual strength. Last week God provided me with physical strength to serve His people in Mexico. For the past month or so, my herniated disk has been causing more and more pain and debilitation. Two weeks ago, I seriously contemplated backing out of the mission trip, thinking to myself "what am I doing, I can hardly walk, much less do construction work." What a mistake that would have been. What limitations we put on the power of God. Each day God was put to the test, and each day He blessed beyond my imagination.



I grew up in the mission field. My dad spent many years growing the church in Canada. I know that he and Mom have made a difference. For the first time in my life, I feel like I have made a difference. Me. I'm no longer a missionary's daughter. I am a missionary. The Mexican people have a place in my heart. I will return.

A day-by-day summary of our trip will be posted in the next few days.

Bapa's Girl

Friday night we had a sleep-over with Lauren. It was Trista's highschool reunion weekend and Jacob had made plans to stay with his uncle. So Lauren had us all to herself. The evening (and morning) confirmed my suspicions that she is definitely Papa's (she says it with a B) girl. I had hoped that she simply gravitated toward him by default. Jacob is always the first in the door and makes a b-line for Nana. With Nana's arms full, I assumed Lauren's second choice was Papa. This time the sibling competition was absent, and she STILL glued herself to "Bapa." Saturday morning, when she began to stir, I went in to say "good morning" and brushing the hair from her eyes and squinting up at me, her first words were "where's Bapa?". We had tons of fun with her, taking her to Pizza Hut, playing outside, endless book-reading, pretending to be Gassy (her name for Gracie--which may be a more appropriate name for the basset). She was ready for bed around 9:00 and asked for her mi'k, then her bankit and binky. Slept right through until about 9:15 Saturday morning.

Photography Plug

I'm a little slow. Last month Jeremy's family had portraits done, and when I saw the proofs, I scanned 3 of them and posted them on my blog. Ooops! That probably wasn't the most ethical thing to do, as they really weren't mine to post. Please forgive me Jenny. In order to try to make good from my honest (really and truly) mistake, I must just tell you about this amazing photographer. She took Lauren's first professional portraits at 2 weeks old. They were adorable and I still display my 10 x 14 and two 5 x 7 black & whites proudly on my mantle. Her specialty is babies and children, but I know she also does weddings and families and probably whatever event you desire. The awesome thing is that SHE comes to YOU. How convenient! She is ever so patient and stays as long as it takes to get the shots you want. Lauren's first photo shoot includes "awake", "asleep", "alone", "with brother". She is also very reasonable in her prices. So, here is the information:

Jenny White Photography
918-313-9587
jwhite723@aol.com

Remember her for your next portraits. Thanks Jenny, for not suing me!

Grandkids

I'm beginning to appreciate the joy my grandchildren show when they visit Nana and Papa (or "Bapa", as Lauren says). I know they are probably still too young to actually be storing up memories yet, but maybe soon. Here are a few pictures taken Thursday. There is a baby bunny that we can almost always count on seeing at the barn. Jacob loves trying to catch him and knows just where he'll exit the barn when Jacob is in pursuit. Lauren likes to get up on the trailer and spin around and dance. Now that the weather is hot, they have to at least put their feet in the pool, and they are always curious to see what might be in the skimmer basket. Thursday they were intrigued by a baby grasshopper that was missing a leg--but could still hop a great distance. Jacob helped Papa escape-proof the dog fence. Papa was pretty brave to hold the pin while Jacob hammered.

The Shack

With VBS over, I had time this week to read The Shack by William P. Young. Notes at the end of the novel suggest the reader take the time to comment on the book in various ways so I'll "review" the book on my blog.

Before reading the novel, I was under the impression that it was based on a true story. Although many truths are contained therein, it is obviously a work of fiction. Nevertheless, I was intrigued from the beginning and it was definitely a quick read. Without revealing the plot, I will just say that it is a unique experience in the theological mysteries of God and His desire for relationship with us. I found myself--even at the busiest times of my day--being drawn back to the book, most likely due to my desire for that relationship. It was absolutely captivating. I didn't want to stop reading, because I didn't want to leave the intimate presence of God. Whether Young's opinion of the interrelationship between the Father, Son and Holy Spirit is competely accurate, or simply his opinion, I feel I have a better understanding of the Trinity. I definitely came away with a greater peace about the chaotic world we live in and the presence of evil because of our choice of independence.

I recommend the book for open-minded, Bible-literate, Christians. It will leave a lasting impression on me.

Are You Smarter Than a VBS Kid?

That is the theme of our Vacation Bible School this year. Tonight is the last night--a cookout for the kids and their parents. I would say this year's VBS was a success. Though nothing is ever perfect, over the years we have worked on fine-tuning every detail. For the first time since I've been at Sand Springs, we broke the 100 mark...twice. Two nights we recorded 101 KIDS in attendance. At least one Bible study has been set up with parents and many have been invited to come worship with us on Sunday.

Every night we had a game show in the final assembly. An adult contestant, with the help of 4 students, grades Pre-K through 6th and the Host of the Show, Bob Fitzworthy. The kids were amazing as far as what they had learned and retained throughout the night. The lessons were on the Ten Plagues of Egypt. Lee Smith was a better Moses than Charlton Heston, and Neal's Pharoah wasn't too shabby. The first night, they learned quickly to "tone it down" for the younger ones, as one little 3 year old in tears had to be removed. But there were some priceless moments, such as when Moses was telling that the water would turn to blood and 3 year old Gage gasped, "Oh nooooo, that would be BAAAD." And on the third night (plagues 5, 6 and 7) when one little girl asked Moses, "Do you think if I give Pharoah a hug, he'll let the people go?"

Fried Green Tomatoes

We've been up to our necks in VBS this week....expect a post and pictures soon...but I took time this morning to mow the yard and the "dog run." Too windy to mow the pool area--I'd spend the rest of the day skimming grass out of the pool. I stopped to take a water break, sat on my lovely new deck and to my surprise I spotted these green tomatoes on my vines!!! Just had to take pictures and show them off. The first picture is regular "beef steak" tomatoes and the second is grape tomatoes. Soon we'll be eating delicious, juicy, "farm raised" tomatoes. I can almost taste them now. Yummmmm! That is, if I can keep Neal from picking them green and frying them up artery-clogging, country-style.

Disappointing Progress

Our church is divided into "shepherding groups" with an elder (shepherd) for each group. Our group planned a night out last night and several of us trekked a good 45 minutes to an hour to eat at an Amish kitchen. I had been to the same place a couple of years ago and knew what to expect. I warned Neal to dress cool...wear shorts...because they have no electricity, therefore no air conditioning. The lights are actually oil/propane/kerosene? lamps that add to the heat in the room. But worth it to experience life at a slower pace and go back in time. What a shock when we arrived to find they had come a long way, baby, in the last two years. Electricity AND airconditioning (Neal's knees were cold) and two SUV's in their carport. The "Elder" of their little Amish community sat with us two years ago and we grilled him on all of their traditions, rules, peculiar ways. Last night he stood for a few minutes and told us about some miracle oil for sore joints they had for sale--$10 for a 2-oz. bottle, then was interrupted by his CELL PHONE. What!??! You're kiddin' me! The whole experience would have been a complete disappointment except that the food was still as wonderful as ever!

It's a Done Deal

Today we signed the papers, handing over our beloved Tulsa home to the Hendricks. It's the easiest transition we've ever made in buying or selling a house. Basically, Jonathan did all the work. Doesn't hurt that he's a loan officer. We don't have the usual anxiety about strange people living in OUR house. It gives us great peace and comfort in knowing the loving family that will inhabit what was once our home. I can't think of anyone I'd rather have living there. The Hendricks brought a sweet "thank you" gift to the closing today. And I really mean SWEET. A box of chocolates from the famous KoKoa Chocolatiers. Didn't take me long, once in the car, to dive in and sink my teeth into a dark chocolate truffle.

I "borrowed" this photo from one of Jessica's blogs, since my hard drive crash a few months ago obliterated all my photos. I hope they enjoy many years of happiness in this house.

Stop the Madness!

Last night Neal & I attended our nephew's 6th Grade Graduation. Now, just how many graduations must we endure these days? Granted, Kindergarten graduations are kinda cute. But at this rate, by the time they finish college, no one will want to go to these monotonous rituals. Last night's event dragged on for almost two hours, sitting on bleachers in a sauna (aka gymnasium). Our nephew, Hunter, was one of three valedictorians, and gave a short speech--the main reason we attended. Awards were doled out like cupcakes....Masonic Award, American Legion Award, President's Awards, awards for straight A's in 4th, 5th & 6th grades, awards for A's & B's, awards for straight A's in a certain subject throughout 6th grade, service awards, personality awards, etc., etc., etc. I'm sure every student got at least one award. Then a video of each child--baby and present. During the video, the students presented a rose to their parents (how sweet...is someone getting married?). The principal is moving on next year to another town, another school. So we had to say 'so long, farewell, auf wiedersehen, goodbye.' The school board President as well as both 6th grade teachers had to give long speeches on the greatness of this man and how he will be missed. I think I counted 4 poems written for the occasion. Awards and plaques were presented to Principal the Great. Almost over right? Au contraire! Another video! Interviews with each student saying goodbye to their teachers and fellow students as they move on to "the next chapter in their lives--middle school." Now, this doesn't mean that I won't attend ALL my grandchildren's graduations because you know I'll be there. I may even stay for the cookies and punch.

Signs of Summer

Technically, summer is over a month away, but it's officially summer now at the Blevins' house. This afternoon I went for a dip in the pool, just up to my waist since the water is only 76 degrees. With temperatures soaring into the 90's today, the air conditioner was finally turned on. The herb garden is in full bloom as well as the potted arrangement on our new deck. Hello Summer!

Early Morning Serendipity

Yesterday, I was up at 6:00 to drive to the hospital for my stress test. I'd had a very restless night. We were in Jeremy & Trista's bed, Jacob sleeping between us. Did I mention he inherited his Great Grandpa Smith's restless leg syndrome and his Papa's teeth grinding? Plus, I did not take my sleeping pill, for fear I may have to get up with one of the kids and needed to be able to be alert on cue. Oh yeah, and Neal didn't bring his C-Pap, so he was snoring. I really dreaded the early morning appointment, but was rewarded richly for my effort. As I drove down Highway 97, I could trace the Arkansas River by the heavy fog sitting over it. What a magnificent sight, and at the same time very eery. Then, onto 412 heading east toward Tulsa, the remnants of fog were beginning to lift and hovered over the trees, creating what looked like photo enhancement. As I neared Tulsa, I saw what appeared to be something on fire coming toward me on the opposite side of the highway. Before my very eyes the radiant orange billows of fog dissipated and cleared the way for the sun to rise. It was breathtaking. I don't mean that figuratively. I literally gasped when I saw it, taking my foot off the accelerator and slowing to watch in amazement. In the words of Bruce Almighty (to God), "now you're just showing off."

Is There Such a Thing?

I've been in a funk this last week. My stress level is high, my hormones are low, and I can't seem to get enough sleep. I cry often. In April I had an episode that I thought was a heart attack. It began just before my phone call from Neal and he insisted I call Jeremy to come over. Jeremy came, Trista called in a panic, wondering if she should call 911, Kenny & JoAnn arrived shortly thereafter (Trista had called them). The symptoms subsided, but my father-in-law encouraged me to have it checked out. I've also been experiencing periods of "heart fluttering" (probably not the medical term) that Janet thinks are panic attacks. Anyway-----I had an EKG last week that was normal, but the doctor wants me to have a stress test, which will happen on Friday. Last night Neal had the audacity to say "what have you got to be stressed about?...you live a stress-free life." Grrrrrrr! Is there such a thing? Aren't we all under a lot of stress? When I started listing my stressors out loud, they didn't sound so daunting. Maybe it's just that I've been out of my hormone balancing cream for over a week. Neighbor Susan (Super Alan's wife--what would we do without them?) to the rescue. She happened to have a new bottle at home. Janet also had an extra, which she offered. What kind of Arbonne Consultant doesn't keep a reserve on hand!?!? Hope it starts working soon since we will have the grandkids Thursday afternoon through Saturday morning. Jeremy & Trista will be going to Las Vegas to attend Trista's brother's graduation. Neal has Friday off, which will make it possible for me to keep my appointment for the stress test. Speaking of Jeremy & Trista, here are some of their latest pictures:

Ahhhhh....Life on the Farm

For the past week, I have been doing a lot of work outdoors. Last Saturday, I cleaned out one of the beds and planted tomatoes. Yeah, that's me, Mrs. Farmer Brown. I also pruned the hydrangea and rose bush and pulled a few weeds. Monday I cleaned the dead leaves out of the herb garden (I know, this may be too much for your brain to process) and pulled out some of the sage that's taking over the garden. Yesterday, I dug grass out of the flower bed inside the pool fence to prepare it for planting. Throughout all this digging, weeding, etc., I was constantly alert to the fact that there may be snakes lurking about. Actually, last Saturday, I did see a few (3 or 4) of the small garden variety...more like over-sized worms. After the digging yesterday, my back was screaming for rest, I was hot (it was over 80 degrees) and thirsty. Needing to return a couple of phone calls, I took the phone and a tall glass of ice water to the front porch swing for a little relaxation. Here is what awaited me on the porch by the swing:

Now, I've heard that there are some black snakes that are actually "good" snakes, i.e. non-poisonous, eat rodents and other snakes, etc. I'm hoping someone can tell me if, in fact, these are "good" snakes. The carpenter who is working on my back porch nudged them with a piece of lumber and they didn't strike, so he thinks they're okay. Jeremy and Neal looked at this picture and confirmed my suspicions that they were mating. Oh goody, more little ones on the way.

Adjusting

We knew there would be an adjustment period when Neal moved back home. So far, things are going pretty smoothly. I give in a little...he gives in a little. I let him choose the tractor--as long as it wasn't a Kubota (Kubota's are orange which would totally clash with my red barn!). He let me choose the replacement windows. We're still trying to adjust our time schedules. He insists on getting up at 4:30 a.m. so he can go to the gym before work. I like to sleep until at least 7:00, which I do, but then he's ready for bed by 9:00. I don't wind down till at least 10:00 or 10:30. (Yes, if you add that up I need more sleep than he does.) But the biggest problem we've come up against is the Sudoku puzzles. He wants to "help" with puzzles I've started, but messes them up!! I accuse him of putting in a wrong number and he says that he put that number in because of another number I had filled in, which must have been wrong. Now we don't know who to blame. So the only solution seemed to be separate puzzles. I write my name at the top of mine and his name at the top of his. He is not allowed to interfere with my solutions. Problem solved. Some things just can't be done "together." I am having to get back into cooking. I really enjoy cooking most of the time, but the past 4-1/2 years I've done very little. It's a challenge to plan meals again and TRY to have a good dinner waiting on him after work. The good ole days of Monday Lean Cuisine, Tuesday Burrito Night, Wednesday Breakfast Night, Thursday-Saturday...whatever drive-through suited my fancy, are over. I asked him what he wanted for his lunches. Besides the typical sandwiches, he also wants fresh fruit. He laughed the first week when I brought home 4 bananas. I'm just not much of a fruit eater and typically fruit spoils before it's eaten at my house. Now I'm having to load up on grapes, apples, oranges, and bananas every trip to the store. When did he turn into such a health nut? The honeymoon continues.......

I think he's starting to understand the overwhelming and never-ending chores that must be done to keep this place going. Janet hit the nail on the head when she said, "you have to decide if you want to live like you're in the city or live like you're in the country." Problem is, I want the best of both. I want a place that well groomed and pristine, but that's not always feasible in rural Oklahoma. I want the yard I had in Tulsa, but I want it out here on our 20 acres.

Wee Ball

Last night was Jacob's first ball game. His friends, Baylor and Piersen (twins) stuck to him like glue, and Baylor (the girl) outplayed them both. Jacob rarely touched the ball, and since he was last batter, by the time he made it to 2nd base--after running there first, then redirected to 1st, then continuing to 2nd--the other team was headed for the dugout. All said, I think they had a good time. I'm sure WE had a better time watching.

Barn Occupants

Finally, something to occupy the horse barn. Both stalls are filled. Their names are "Pride" and "Joy." Hopefully Pride will make us proud by keeping our fields groomed. Joy--she's really just for fun--although Neal insists we need her to get back in the woods and haul limbs. Not exactly what I had in mind for our tax refund....maybe next year.

PRIDE

JOY

Who's the Boss?

Yep, it's my second post of the day. My new windows are being installed, so I'm trying to stay out of their way.

Thought I'd post a picture of Neal on his last day of work at BP. In case you can't read it, it say's "A Range Rider's code is to follow an order...We know who the boss is because your wife said 'Get your butt back across the Border!'" (Range Riders is the name of their Turnaround Team.)Obviously, they know who the real boss is.

Playing with Fire

Apparently it is advantageous to "burn off" your farm in the Spring. It's not only the quickest way to clean up leaves, old tall grasses and many fallen limbs and branches, but it also reduces the tick population. Of course, I couldn't begin to attempt burning without Neal here, so we're a little late, as there is already quite a bit of green growing that won't burn. It's also been a very windy Spring, so when Monday was a clear, mild day, with variable winds less than 5 mph, everything else had to be dropped to spend the day burning. Alan came over to show us city folks the proper care and handling of a farm burn. I had no idea it was so involved. After alerting the neighbors and the Rural Fire Department, the pyromania began. It was exhausting and DIRTY work. The whole day was spent lighting, re-routing, extinguishing, and re-lighting fires. I have to admit, some of it was kind of fun. I had a prayer meeting to attend at 6:00 p.m. and at 5:15 Neal said, "If you're going to pray, you'd better go get cleaned up." I took a quick bath, threw on some clean clothes and rushed to church. I had no make-up on, my face was red from occasionally getting too close to the fire, and my hair still smelled like smoke. I walked in at 6:02. Wow! I'm even impressed. That is....until...Etta commented, "Did you know you have your shirt on wrong-side-out?" Ummm....yeah....I meant to do that.

Bringing Neal Home

Thursday morning I flew to Houston to fetch my hubby. Wednesday was his last day to work for BP, and although he was relieved, he has built many good friendships in his 4-1/2 years in Texas City. So it was a little emotional for my big strong husband. They threw a big party for him at lunch and said their final good-byes. Thursday afternoon was spent deep cleaning the RV, inside and out. Late in the afternoon, we went to the home of one of Neal's JV superiors. He has a beautiful house on the water (Galveston Bay), with his bay boat docked practically at his back door. Then, one more chicken chimicanga at Gringo's, my favorite Tex-Mex restaurant in the bay area...I almost shed a tear.

We woke up early Friday morning, thinking maybe we could pull out around 7:00. Whoa...there's a lot more to unhooking the RV than I thought and we finally rolled out about 9:00. The journey back to Oklahoma was relatively uneventful, despite the strong North wind we were driving into. Four gas tank fill-ups later, we were in the home stretch. I was a little nervous about being able to turn into our drive, between the gate posts, but it was a piece of cake. That was the last of the cake. Trying to maneuver the fifth wheel into the anticipated resting spot, the truck got stuck in the south pasture. By this time it's starting to get dark, there's a biting north wind blowing, and Neal is in his shorts and t-shirt (it was 85 when we left Kemah at 9:00 a.m.). We found this to be a great way to meet neighbors, as a strange pick-up pulled in to help...chained the back of the RV to the back of his truck and pulled while Neal backed up. As this was happening, yet another strange truck pulled in to see if we needed help. Okay, so now we know Brian and Robert. Thanks guys, we've got it from here. Doh!.....weren't counting on the low-hanging tree branches. It's getting later...and colder...and Neal is on top of the RV with a tree saw, cutting branches as I'm backing up the RV. Oh, I bet the neighbors haven't had entertainment like this in a long time! Anyway, the RV is sitting in the front circle drive until we decide where to put the monster. You'd think with 20 acres, it wouldn't be a problem, but we have all these FENCES and want to be able to EASILY park and pull out whenever the camping bug hits us.

Homecoming

I can finally make public the news that Neal is coming home! Not just his 3 days off every 18 days...but home to stay. In answer to many prayers, he is being moved to the facility in Skiatook (about 20 minutes away) and will finish his four and a half year job at BP in Texas City on Thursday. Just in time for all the spring work here at the farm. In preparation for his homecoming, I've been doing some reorganizing to make room for his "stuff." I've pretty much taken over our closet and now must clear out a wee bit of room for him. Since the renovation of the house, we've left the closet in the office unfinished. Now I need room for some of our off-season clothes, so I purchased a closet organizer and assembled it today. The instructions indicated an assembly time of 45 minutes. Liars. It took me most of the afternoon, but that's okay...it's done. The only problem was that when I drilled holes to attach the hanging bar to the wall, I saw light streaming in through the hole! Walked around to the hallway and yep, two nice little holes in the wall. Hmmm....gotta find something to hang there. Mom's painting of my Grandpa's barn seems perfect.

George & Gracie

There is a bird that has claimed a hole in the pipe of our storm cellar for her Spring nesting place. I don't think she was expecting George and Gracie. They relentlessly torment this poor little bird, jumping up on the cellar door and pipe and barking ferociously into the hole. I'll be shocked if she is actually able to lay her eggs in the midst of all the commotion.