Marines and x's

Life seems to love to bring you surprises. My X is now engaged and expecting a baby. I have this delightful Marine occupying my free time and the year is almost over. A couple weeks ago John took me on a little hike through a Double Horn Creek and I was amazed at how beautiful the creek was in the fall. I filled my eyes with the beautiful fall colors and loved hiking along and climbing on rocks as we were serenaded by the trickling of the water as it cascaded over the rocks in the creek. I believe John said it was a six mile hike all I know is I slept good that night. Now John has become a staple in my life from the frequent visits to say Hi at Wal-Mart to the time we spend together on my days off. I get teased a lot at work but I don’t care I like this guy and he keeps me laughing. Last night the X and his new baby’s momma drove up to bring me a few tubs of my stuff and I gave them the signed divorce papers to give the attorney. John and I met them at River City Grill and we had a nice dinner and visit before they left. Tom surprised me by asking if I was happy. I replied “Tommy I love it here and I am very happy” we said our good byes and Tom told John to take care of me I was a nice lady. John said I know that is why I’m with her. I wasn’t sure what to say so I was silent for a little while. I felt a huge weight lifted off my shoulders knowing that he has moved on and now I have a life of my own to live. I have realized that I am in a good place and I have lots of friends that are like my family. Now I have this romantic Marine that knows just how to make me smile and he seems to want to spend as much time with me as I want to spend with him. Life is good! Now all I need is a computer so I can finish editing Case of the Dead Husband and get it to the publisher.

Thanks and it was Great

I have a lot to be thankful for. I have an interesting job that pays my bills, I have great friends, and I have great kids. I'm grateful for my truck, my intelligence and the two dogs that fill my life with love. My three children came to visit for the Thanksgiving Weekend and I had a chance to spend some time with my 8 month old grandson. Right when I didn't think that things could get any better I was asked out on a date.
Baby James is a cute little ball of energy that is into everything. There is no way you could get tired of him but the great thing about grand children is they have parents to hand them to when they cry or need changed. My daughter Kikki complains that Baby James is not a kisser but as we were standing in line at Wal-Mart waiting to pay for our purchases he looked at me sweetly then opened his mouth as he leaned in and kissed me right on the face. Kikki said "now what did you do to deserve that." I laughed then replied "I didn't have to do anything he knows his Baa Baa loves him" Mater and Bridgett thought Baby James was a puppy then followed him as he crawled around the house.
I guess I have to say I am thankfull for the full rich life i live and i am thankful that the X has decided to settle on the divorce which means when the papers come I get them signed then send them back. It will be over soon giving me more to be thankful for. Thank you so much I am grateful for it all.

Salute

I have to admit that I enjoy my job most of the time. I have a few favorite customers that I see on a regular basis and one of those we have dubbed the cookie monster because he jokes with us about hiding the free samples when we know he is in the store. Last week I had a cake order to do for the Marines 233rd Birthday. Since I love a man in uniform and respect people that belong to the military I put a little extra love into decorating the cake. On my day off I went into the store to buy some food and after a little ribbing by a few fellow associates about not being able to stay away on my day off Nickey called me over to the counter. She informed me that the Cookie Monster came in and he wanted to know who did the cake for the Marines. I replied " What did I do wrong?"
"Cindy they loved it!" she exclaimed.
Friday when I returned to work Nickey said to go to the Customer Service Desk. "I just got here how can I be in trouble already?" I mumbled.
"It's good I promise" she replied as I removed my apron and walked out the swinging door.
The CSM handed me a file folder and said congratulations. When I opened the folder I found a certificate proclaiming me an Honorary Marine. I thought this is so cool so when I got off work I immediately bought a document frame for the certificate then hung it proudly on my wall. Monday while I was working by myself Cookie Monster walked up. I thanked him for the certificate and we had a nice chat. We stood there sharing pictures of our art on our phones and I told him about Out of the Texas Mist then handed him my card. He promised he was going to Serendipity Books to order a copy and wanted me to sign it. I was so happy that I had met someone else from the Houston Area that now calls the Hill Country home and possibly gained another reader.Before he left he exclaimed "Remember once a Marine always a Marine" I'm happy to be a Honorary Marine because I didn't have to do it the hard way and endure all those push ups.

Am I in Love?

As I was sitting in the break room Sunday evening Alva from the Jewelry Department came in then hugged me real tight. I looked up then smiled at the sweet woman that had been reading Out of the Texas Mist.
“Cindy you have to tell me does Kinky know that you are in love with him? Has he read your book?”
Shocked at the question I replied “Well Alva I sent a copy before it was published and I gave him one that I had signed for him. He did say he read parts of it and he liked it so I hope he read the rest of it.”
“Does he know how you feel about him?” she demanded as she sat down across from me.
“Alva I don’t know how I feel so if he knows then maybe he should tell me” I joked trying to figure out why she was so excited that I was attracted to Kinky Friedman.
“What about that good looking Deputy Ben where did you meet him?” She inquired as she leaned across the table to whisper her question.
“Alva you do know the book is fiction and Ben is just a figment of my imagination right?”
“Yes I know it is fiction but I do know you have a thing for Kinky.” she admitted. Well that just blew my cover I guess it was obvious the Jewish Cowboy had caught my attention. After I sat there and explained that I had never been alone with Kinky and the most attention I had gotten were a few hugs she was still gun ho about the two of us hooking up. I then explained that Kinky was a playboy of sorts and had all types of women stashed here and there.
“Come on Cindy everyone knows you are taken” she offered as she stood up then left. Shocked I looked around the break room and realized several people were staring at me. Okay maybe I blew the discrete part of my little crush when I wrote the dedication to Kinky at the beginning of the book. I figured if Kinky didn’t know that I was attracted to him then maybe he needed a check up from the neck up. The funny thing about crushes is are they just an attraction or is there some real feelings there.
As more and more people read Out of the Texas Mist then approach me to ask if Kinky knows I am starting to wonder if maybe I need to get face to face with the Kinkster and see what he thinks.
I must admit I have a deep respect for the man and he is one great looking cowboy but am I really in love with him? Maybe that is why I haven’t met anyone.
I have been having so much fun writing these little fictional stories I have fallen in love fictionally and haven’t even noticed. So the big question is ....Am I in love with Kinky?

Hermits and Hismits

After reading Kinky Friedman’s article in Texas Monthly I thought it was weird that he thought himself a hermit. I figured a hermit never came out of their cave or cabin. He told of a cute tale he was told when he was a child and a camper at his families summer camp Echo Hill. Then the end of the article he admits that he was the hermit of Echo Hill. Frankly I do not see him as a hermit but who am I to argue with the Kinkster.

When my sons and their women came to visit last weekend I learned that I was considered a hermit. I found this a strange thing to tell me considering I had just read the article a week before. It was Sheena that told me this in passing as we were eating out at Justin’s favorite restaurant The River City Grill. Sheena’s mom Sharon and her Grandfather Roger said that all I do is go to work then came home. I have been accused of never going out or visiting with neighbors. I found this funny coming from a man that calls me Wal-Mart. I don’t visit because by the time I get home I just want to relax and spend time with Mater and Bridgett. I do not date because well no one has asked. Feeling a bit hurt I just tried to shrug this off but it bothered me. Yesterday I talked to my daughter Kikki and I asked her if she thought I was a hermit. Her answer was “Mom you have always been kind of a loner and yes you are a hermit. If you could find a way to make money from home you would never go anywhere. Face it mom you are just the female version of Kinky. If he could sell his books with out doing book signings he would never leave his lodge.”
“No Kinky would still go to Vegas he likes to gamble” I replied in defense of my favorite cowboy.
I guess my daughter opened my eyes so now I will have to work on getting out more. Sharon and Donald have convinced me that I need to move back into their house though because they are afraid I will become to depressed then isolate myself.
I have had a few phone calls from my ex-husband’s new girlfriend and the divorce is being pushed through because the two of them want to get married. I am happy for the two of them but mostly I am happy that he is no longer holding on and I will finally be free. The kids on the other hand are pressuring me to move back to the area so I can be in their lives again. I love the Hill Country and I don’t want to leave but for some reason I feel the Marble Falls area is not where I truly need to be. I would love to be closer to The Utopia Animal Rescue Ranch so I can volunteer. The wonderful thing is all my options are open so I guess I will go where the wind blows me. I will be submitting Case of the Dead Husband to the publisher next month so I will be busy making last minute revisions up through the holidays then I can focus my mind onto Case of the Missing Texas Star Who Took My Kinky. Maybe being busy will make me a bigger hermit in those neighbors’ eyes. The funny thing is I like being who I am. I entertain my co-workers and customers at Wal-Mart while I am there then I come home and spend time with the two dogs that love me for who I am.

On the Road Again

Well I can honestly say it sucks to be with out a vehicle. I had the day off Saturday Oct 25th and I loaded up Mater and Bridgett so we could head off on an adventure. Our destination was Fredericksburg. Just after we passed 71 my truck Firecracker made a weird sound then I lost compression making it hard to get over thirty five miles an hour. Heading back home I begged Firecracker to get us back safely. Well it just so happens that the electronic ignition system that I had put in Firecrackers distributor had worn out so had the distributor. Arranging a ride to work on Sunday I figured I would get the part on Thursday when I got paid. As I explained what had happened to my truck to Johnny in Produce on Sunday he offered to lend me the money to order the distributor so I could get my truck finished sooner. I was thrown that so many people were offering help in giving me rides. I must say my fellow associates at Wal-Mart are wonderful people. Finally with distributor in hand on Tuesday we attempted to stab it. Problem number three the rod that runs from the distributor into the oil pump had came undone. I was heart broken knowing I would have to drop my oil pan to try to fix the problem and I did not have the tools necessary to do so. Needless to say I was blue for a couple days then when Saturday rolled around and I realized that I had been without a vehicle for a week I spent my day in tears. I called Kinky Friedman to wish him a happy birthday while I was on break which did lift my spirits some but not even Kinky could pull me out of my depression. I did have a half of a smile for about a half hour.
Don went home then told Sharon that I had cried at work most of the day so she grabbed her phone then called my son Justin to tell on me. He called to see what my problem was. When I explained he told me he loved me and that they would come down next weekend to help me out. I was so happy that I would be seeing my boys soon which pulled me right out of my depression.
Sunday was a better day and as I walked around my yard waiting on my ride of the day to pick me up for work I picked up a little acorn, made a wish that my truck would be fixed real soon then placed it in my pocket. I spent most of the day feeling better. Josh called me around lunch asking me what I needed for my truck. I explained that we just needed to get that pin back in place. He reassured me that they would be there late Friday. I had a big smile on my face after I hung up then told all my friends there in the brake room that my boys were coming to my rescue. Later in the day as I was in the personnel office doing a necessary Computer Based Test over Hazardous materials in the work place when the door opened and Lupe from produce walked in and said some one was looking for me. I looked up and there stood Josh, Elizabeth, Justin and Sheena. I was flabbergasted. The foursome had driven four and a half hours just to come help me on the spur of the moment. Tears poured down my face as I rushed to finish my work so I could leave early. Needless to say josh had the pin in place, distributor stabbed and my truck purring within a half hour. The kids took me out to eat at River City Grill before leaving for the four and a half hour drive home. Now that is what you call love. I am so proud of my kids and the great adults they have become. I did learn one thing that weekend I found out that I am a hermit. I will tell you that tomorrow.

Grapes and Cheese please

Last night my friend Sharon and I went to the Arts Gala at the Marble Falls Library. They were celebrating local artist and authors. I did learn that my book “Out of the Texas Mist” didn’t stay on the shelf. I found out that as soon as someone brought it back it was checked out again. Wow I am so happy that others are enjoying my book as much as I enjoyed writing it. Sharon and I enjoyed looking at the paintings and discussing what we felt with each one then we realized that the gala was mostly older people sitting around listening to music and eating grapes and cheeses while drinking wine. We stayed an hour then headed off to the local drug store chain to buy vitamins. I ended staying up late into the evening editing “Case of the Dead Husband” getting it ready for the publisher in December. I still haven’t purchased a computer so I will have to wait to finish typing what I wrote in that purple spiral which included the ending of the book.
On another note I gave Linda B. the store operator a copy of “Out of the Texas Mist “for her birthday. She read it in two days which she said was a record for her because she could not put it down. I laughed as she raved out loud to everyone in the break room about how much she loved my book. Sherri one of the sweepers heard her then went to the local book store to order the book. Now the Manager of the book store wants to work with me on a book signing. See how one good deed leads to great things happening.

Well needless to say I still haven’t connected with Kinky and he said for me to call him today so we could discuss “Case of the Missing Texas Star, Who took my Kinky?” It is tough when he is so busy but I’m patient and I know we will get our little chat. It will be a tough weekend for me because I will be working alone which means I will have to make all those cake orders all by myself. I did get some great news from my kids. It seems that the soon to be ex husband has moved his new girlfriend in and they plan on getting married when the divorce is final. Well good for him I am glad to see that he is moving forward with his life allowing me to move forward with mine. Look out world here I come.

Cruzin in the Escalade

After spending the last week chasing and searching for Bridgett every time she escaped the yard I was about to hang myself from the shower rod. I tried putting her on a long leash just out side the back door so she could enjoy the yard with Mater but she pulled out of her collar then dug under the fence in a new spot and ran off. I had to search for her before work two days straight so I decided trying to put her harness on her. Either she is super smart or a little on the dumb side because she quickly wrapped herself around the trampoline then backed herself out of her harness. Again I spent valuable time before leaving for work to search for her. I had a long talk with her only to be ignored because ten minutes after letting her and Mater out to do their business she was gone again. This morning she figured out how to remove the obstacles that were placed by the back fence to escape once again. I love Bridgett dearly but I just do not know how to deal with a Houdini. Today we played out in the yard and had a great game of soccer before I snapped a few pictures of my kids. Sitting in the back by my porch is a long forgotten Power Wheels Escalade. I pushed it forward then ask the two of them to get in. The funny thing was they actually got in. I guess i spend too much time with fur people.

Bucket List

I found this on Cousin Nancy's blog so I thought I would borrow it. This can be fun and I hope I get a lot of responses.


The Bucket List Instructions:
Hit forward and place an X by all the things you've done and remove the X from all the ones you have not. Send it to all your friends including me. This is for your entire life!

() Gone on a blind date -
(X) Skipped school - I was a rebel
() Watched someone die -
( ) Been to Canada - Never been out of Texas
(X) Been to Mexico - may have been forced over the border to shop with my mom and dad when I was a wee child. All I remember is ALTO signs and lots of flies on the food
() Been to Florida -
() Been on a plane -
(X) Been lost - my sense of adventure kicked in and I found my way home
() Been on the opposite side of the country -
( ) Gone to Washington, DC - no thank you
(X) Cried yourself to sleep - and looked like you know what in the morning!
(X ) Played cops and robbers - my brother had walkie talkies and my sister and I were always the bad guys
( x) Recently colored with crayons - one of my favorite things to do
( ) Sang Karaoke - yeah right
( ) Sang in front of a large audience (200 or more)
() Spoke in front of a large audience (200 or more)
(X) Paid for a meal with coins only - hasn't everyone
(X) Done something you told yourself you wouldn't - yes I had kids
(X) Made prank phone calls - Is your refrigetartor running?
(X) Laughed until some kind of beverage came out your nose -
() Caught a snowflake on your tongue. I'm a Texan we don't know what snow is.
(X) Danced in the rain -
(X) Written a letter to Santa Claus - I just send him a message he is one of my friends on MySpace

(X) Been kissed under the mistletoe - he he he I loved it.
(X) Watched the sunrise with someone you care about - many moons ago with my first and only love.
(X) Blown bubbles in your milk -
() Gone ice-skating -
(X) Wished upon a falling star - one of those wishes came true
( ) Swam with Dolphins or Stingrays- Does having a dolphin tatto and swimming count?
(X) Drove as fast as your car would go -again I was a rebel
(X) Laughed until you pee'd your pants..or sneezed, passed gas, puked, or fell down- Nearly did the other day when Nickie and I started laughing at work. She was on the floor and I had tears running down my face. Our supervisor Keith said quit having so much fun.

About you:
1. Any nickname? Yes, Honey,Keyloulou, honeybuns, and the dreaded Cindy Wendy and Windy Hill.
2. Mother's name? Wanda
3. Favorite drink? Water or an ice cold beer on a hot summer day
4. Tattoo? Boliver the blue dolphin, a heart in the center of the Hill Country and a weird star on my hand that is the result of being young and dumb.
5. Body piercing? Nope
6. How much do you love your job? It would be a delight with out the crap that comes with working retail.
7. Birthplace? Houston, Texas
8. Favorite vacation spot? I'll have to look that word up in the dictionary. I don't believe I have ever had one.
9. Ever been to Africa? If it's not in Texas I haven't been there. LOL
10. Ever eaten just cookies for dinner? sad to say but yes
11. Ever been on TV? Yes, I was on a talk show when my Mickey and Pookie renewed their vows. I looked and sounded like a dork
12. Ever steal any traffic signs? No, but my kids have brought them home. I made them get rid of them. It is against the law to have stolen property in your possesion.13. Ever been in a car accident? Yes, when I was in the sixth grade. My brother spilled his cherry icee on my pretty white fur coat and the paramedic's thought it was blood at first. The coat never came clean.
14. Drive a 2-door or 4-door vehicle? yes, I love my truck but I have driven cars.
15. Favorite hobby? Writing, painting, creating
16. Favorite pie? coconut meringue17. Favorite number? 5
18. Favorite movie? Men in Black, Lady and the Tramp, all of Mel Brooks movies
19. Favorite holiday? Thanksgiving
20. Favorite dessert? anything with sugar
21. Favorite food? Fruits and vegetables
22. Favorite day of the week? Wednesday
23. Favorite brand of body wash? Dove
24. Favorite toothpaste? Crest
25. Favorite smell? Magnolia blossoms
26. How do you relax? sitting on the back deck with a cold beer watching Mater and Bridgett play
27. How do you see yourself in 10 years? approaching 60 and taking the world by storm
28. Furthest place you will send this message? that depends on who reads it
29. Who will respond the fastest?

Inspiration

As I was busy at work yesterday making cupcake creatures to put in the cake case I saw a very tall bald man walk by. He glanced in my direction so I smiled and said hello. When he smiled back a cold shiver went up my spine. The guy was menacing at best. Instantly I had him as a character in my current project Case of the Missing Texas Star Who Took My Kinky? Then as I stood there creating the scenario that would bring him into the story I laughed at myself. Here I was working away and writing with out even realizing it. I love the creative process of writing fiction. Once I arrived home last night then let Mater and Bridgett out to play I made my famous Chicken Stir Fry (the secret ingredient is beer) I sat down and created this menacing fellow. The thing is should I make him a friend or foe? I guess he will have to wait for the finished story for that one. I have just one problem with this one. I really need a dose of Kinky to keep me inspired.

Love the Older Men

Last night as I was on my late lunch break I sat there trying to write more of my continuing saga Case of the Missing Texas Star Who Took My Kinky? but for some reason Kinky was failing me(maybe because he has been kinkynapped). One of the older gentlemen that I love to chat with walked up and started asking questions about the writing process. I like Dan he is a sweet fellow with all sorts of interesting stories. Somehow the subject ended up on genealogy and Texas History and I learned he is a direct descendant from a Gillispe that has his name on the San Jacinto Monument. I was fascinated as he told me of other ties to more important people in American History along with Texas History. I am the first to admit that I love Texas and her rich history. I remember the first time I had a huge let down was when I was in the sixth grade and my mother couldn't help me prove that I was from more than two generations of native Texans. I wanted to be a member of the D.A.R. but my father was the first Texan in his family and My mom wasn't for sure if she was the first or second. Maybe now that I am an adult I can research this to see. Needless to say Dan has convinced me that I need to have even more conversations with him.

It's Ironic

After getting a call from my youngest son Justin about their welfare after Hurricane Ike I felt a little better and less worried. The whole bunch of them fared well and the house is still standing. The sad thing was my beautiful peach tree that I lovingly named General Sam Houston, was blown over. Mickey and I had planted the tree years ago and I would talk to General Sam each and every time I would get in or out of my truck because I parked under him. Everyone laughed at me when I planted the little peach tree saying it would never bear fruit. I laughed in return when just a few months latter we had a bushel of peaches to enjoy. Each year General Sam grew more and gave me peaches to enjoy and share with the neighbors. Justin said Josh pulled it out of the ground which upset him terribly. Justin and Sheena struggled to get it back in the ground hoping to save it. He said that every time he saw that tree he was reminded of me. I replied Justin I moved I’m not dead.
Kikki called to tell me they were still without power but someone had ran an extension cord to their house so they had a refrigerator for the baby. Then she told me that my Texas fence blew down. The funny thing of that is I had painted all these pieces of tin with Texas Battle Flags and attached them to the back fence. When Ike came through he blew my fence into the Mexican families’ house behind us in bedding several flags into their siding. The Ironic thing is the people do not speak English so they didn’t complain when Tom and the boys went to retrieve the fence and flags well at least I hope the retrieved the flags. All this happened right around the time most people of Mexican decent are celebrating their independence from Spain. Viva Texas!
They say the area looks like a battle area with trees down everywhere and the power company is still trying to reset all the lines that are down. I can say I’m glad I do not live in Harris County anymore. To separate myself more I now have a Hill Country phone number thus being able to shut down my Harris county line.
The other day at work my Hill Country line rang and I answered it as I sat at one of the tables in the break room. As I talked on the dark pink Hill Country phone my light pink Harris County phone rang. I asked the person on the Hill Country phone to hold on while I answered the other line. Some one sitting at the table laughed as I talked on the two phones. Once I had closed both phones and placed them back in my pockets she replied “You must be important” I smiled real big and said” I am I’m important in two area codes 281 and 830 oh I’m sorry make that four I have my 713 phone at home but I gave my 832 to my x.”
We all had a great laugh on that one as I got up to finish my day at Wal-Mart.

p.s. Last night my son Justin called telling me that it didn't look good for the peach tree.Poor old General Sam just needed my gentle tough but I'm too far away to help. I guess that is just a sign that I am gone for good. My Harris County phone line now belongs to my daughter Kikki. I'm just severing ties that bind.

Painting Again

Well I have been feeling a little blue so I decided that I would paint a picture to lift my spirits. I searched through the little box of pictures that I was able to bring with me when I escaped Hell. I felt let down because I had left a huge container behind with the many photos I had taken over the years. I finally found a good picture of Mickey and used that to paint an 11x16 canvas. I guess this is my tribute to my best friend. I have been working on Case of the Missing Texas Star Who Took My Kinky? Once I get another computer I will finish typing in the finished Case of the Dead Husband so I can submit it to the Publisher in December. I'm keeping busy so I don't realize that I'm lonely. Actually I'm not lonely because I have Mater and Bridget to love me unconditionally.

The Three Stooges

Mater and Bridget have a new friend. Big Boy is a huge Pit Bull that thinks he is a kitten. He loves to give and receive love and climb into the unsuspecting lap. Lately he has been spending a lot of time in the back yard with mater and Bridget when they are out getting their exercise. After playing on the trampoline with Mater and Bridget yesterday I realized that they remind me of the Three Stooges. Mater thinks he is Moe of course and tries to tell Bridget (Larry) and Big Boy (Curly) what to do. The funniest thing is he jumps on the trampoline and barks at Big Boy as he walks under the trampoline to stay out of the sun. I have never really been on a trampoline before so I was not aware that when you are an older adult jumping on a trampoline makes you dizzy. I did however have a great time with Mater and Bridget on the trampoline as we sat there and hugged and wrestled. I guess you can say my day off was wonderful.

Moving On and The Check Was in the Mail

Well last week I finally was served with the divorce papers. The Constable laughed because I was so excited. He said he had never seen anyone so thrilled to be served a summons. I told him I had been waiting for this for a long time. He said they had called him twice inquiring if he had served the papers or not. Once he left I went into Pro Se mode then worked on sending my answer to the District Clerks office. Once the papers were noterized and in the mail I took a deep breath because now I know the next step will take me closer to my freedom and peace of mind. My kids keep calling to tell me of this woman that their dad is dating and like I told them I am happy for him I just hope he treats her better than he treated me. I have a bright future. To make matters even better I opened the mail box to find my first Royalty check from the publisher. Wow I have actually been paid for a book that I had written. Life is great and it just keeps getting better.

Still Here

Well I am still here taking it day by day. I hate being without a computer and I think I'm beginning to suffer from withdrawal symptoms. I really want to transfer the ending of The Case of the Dead Husband on to disk but I have to wait until I get a computer to do so. The soon to be X has hired an attorney to make sure he gets what he wants. I'm not sure what he expects but I have nothing to hide. I have left with what little I could carry and left the rest to him. He will not even help out our daughter who desperately needs help with the baby and his medicine. However he tells everyone that he is helping her but he refuses to even buy diapers. I don't understand how he can be the way he is. I have began to activly search for another job because at Wal-Mart I do not have the time or energy to promote my first book Out of the Texas Mist. I have however learned how to strike up a conversation with just about anyone and shamelessly tell them about Out of the Texas Mist as I hand them my card.The Temp to Perm Agency that I have applied at has already called to let me know they have forwarded my resume to a business here in Marble that needs a receptionist. Wooo Whoo I am on my way. At least I can say I am still being positive and doing things the right way. I am a good person and I will receive what is rightfully mine because that is what the universe and karma demands. Tom can do all he wants and believe what he wants but the truth will prevail in the end.

A Work of Love

I have had a rough couple of weeks. Wal-Mart is wearing me down and I must admit it is wearing on my sunny disposition. I decided that I need to do something artistic to lift my spirits so I bought a 3 pack of canvas yesterday then came home to paint. I remembered finding a sweet picture of Domino and wanted to paint a tribute to my little monkey. I grabbed the picture, my pencils and paints then sat down on the sofa. The next thing I knew I felt better and had a finished 16x20 painting of the Bisguinator. I'm glad that I am off today and tomorrow and I think maybe i should paint some more but more importantly I think I may need to start looking for another job. When the one you have starts to make you unhappy then that means you do not belong there. Life is too short for unhappiness. Oh and i had some good news. The future X filed for divorce. I was planning on doing so when I saved the filing fee but he beat me to it because he thinks he will get a better deal. The secret is I win no matter what because he will never be able to hurt me again. I don't care he can have it all as long as I have my peace of mind I am the winner.

Haven't Been Kissed

Sometimes when you spend too much time alone you end up reflecting on things in life that have affected you or passed you by. Last night as Mater gave me a real sloppy kiss I thought back to the past men in my life. The sad thing was I realized that I haven’t been kissed by a man since July 5, 2002. Now I must admit I did not decide to set this goal in life I guess it just happened because I allowed my self to stay in a bad situation for far too long. Now I guess my excuse is I have been just going it day by day and not actually caring about having someone in my life other than the two fur covered individuals that I choose to spend my time with. I go to work, associate with those that I enjoy then come home to two dogs. The question that I am forced to face is do I actually want to have a significant other in my life? Well yes I actually do but how do you go about finding that person? I guess since I am so busy writing about my fictitious life I have neglected my real life. I am so out of practice will I actually know what to do? I admit I have enjoyed the dream time love up to a point but I have to admit I miss being held and being touched. Now that I have relayed how pathetic I am maybe I will find the right person because I have stated that I am ready. So lets get to it Universe I’m ready, willing and able.

It Quacks me up

I was taught a valuable lesson years ago but for some reason I choose to repeat it over and over again. The lesson is do not feed a stray because it then becomes your responsibility. I learned this lesson by feeding countless kittens, cats, dogs and pups. I also learned if you feed the squirrels and birds they come to expect it. I have met a number of squirrels that would come and look in the windows and storm door wondering where the food was. There has been a few that would even knock not caring that there were several Boston Terriers on the other side that would love to take a bite out of them. There even has been a tricky booger that learned I kept the squirrel food in the large plastic bucket on the front porch. It took her all of two days of watching me fill the feeders then she helped herself by eating a hole in the lid of the bucket.
Now after caring for animals for the majority of my life I screwed up once again. I was saying how having just the two dogs to care for was so easy to do until I screwed up and fed a gaggle of ducks that live somewhere near by. I know there is a large pit with water in it across the way but I don't know who the ducks belong to. Now when I go outside or come in from work the ducks race across the road to see me knowing I have a soft heart and will feed them bread or what ever I find. Now that I feel sorry for the skinny ducks I guess I will stop off at the local feed store and purchase some duck feed. I guess that is what I get for having a soft heart but I look at it this way I have about a dozen new friends.

Saturday August 9 ,2008 Hurry Up and Wait

Since I have lost my computer thanks to a processor that has burned I will have to do my blog in my little spiral notebook then post when possible. Today's blog is for two days.

Saturday August, 9, 2008

Hurry Up and Wait

A wise woman told me that I was headed to the place I belonged. She told me to be patient and take one step at a time. I respect her advice because I know it came from her heart. I know my destiny is calling but i don't know the when, how or where. I know I'm close because I feel the pull. As I was writing a passage in my current novel Case of the Dead Husband I realized that I had touched on something so eerie it sent chill bumps up my arms. I don't know what my destiny is but I did know it was calling from the 830 area code. I know I belong here in the Texas Hill Country. The hard part is being patient. I feel at times like I'm just spinning my wheels. I'm growing tired of the hard crusty part and I am wanting to get to the soft sweet center and enjoy the life I'm meant to live. I know, I know you have to take it one step at a time in order to appreciate the end result. I know these little bumps in the road are there to keep me awake and concentrating on the lessons I need to learn. I know I need to face the challenges to make me the person I need to become but it is just a slow process and I am one of the hurry up generation. I guess I just need to learn how to hurry up and wait.

Taking Donations

Well it has almost been three months since I moved here and the struggle continues. The future x loves to call and harass me but I take it in stride. I started filling out the paperwork for the divorce and the burden is on my shoulders to file. I found a great web site and for the low cost of $200 I can do all the paperwork online then head on over to the court house and pay the $300 filing fee. So for a mere $500 I can file for a divorce. That is 1/3 of what a lawyer wanted when I talked to him months ago. Wow a divorce on a discounted plan is just as good as one on a layaway plan. What next you buy your divorce papers at Wal-Mart? Hey then I think I would at least get an employee discount. It doesn’t matter I am trying to scrimp and save after paying rent and bills so I can be the free woman I want to be. I made sure I put in a clause that says that I get all rights and royalties to all my creative work meaning books, art work and ideas. He can keep the money he has hidden away I don't want it. I will at least have the comfort in knowing I did this the right way. He has been chasing after some woman who I personally feel sorry for. She doesn’t realize what she is in for. To each his own. I am happy here in my little trailer with my two sweet dogs with the life that I am carving out for myself here in the Texas Hill Country. I don’t want to sound bitter because I am not I am happy to be free from the abuses he put me through. It takes a big person to forgive and forget. I have forgiven but I don’t have to forget. I am happy and ready to move on. Woo Whoo Life is good!

Day at the Lake

Today being my day off from the Salt Mine I call Wal-Mart I decided that I needed some sunshine and fresh air. I put Mater and Bridgett's harnesses on and tied on matching bandannas before throwing on an old pair of jeans that kept sliding off my hips so I grabbed a belt and tightened it up so I didn't show my underwear even though this is the fashion to some. Once we headed out the door Bridgett was excited to ride in my truck. She hopped right in but Mater still has a bit of a problem with riding in my truck. I don't know what his problem is with riding in the seat with me but he gets upset. Once Bridgett was in and ready to go Mater seemed to settle down and relax. "Well what do you know" I exclaimed as I looked over to see Mater sitting there next to Bridgett all happy and smiling. Since we don't live very far from the lake the drive was short but enjoyable. I had put my Rascal Flats CD in and was singing along to "Here" as I drove. Bridgett didn't seem to mind the sing along but Mater was looking at me like I had lost my mind. When we arrived at the Park we all jumped out of my little red truck and headed to the water. I warned them to hold off on the water until I got a couple of pictures. Mater started to get impatient because he had never seen a lake before and he wanted to feel the water on his toes. Bridgett was more interested on the cypress trees that lined the bank. Once pictures were over I let the kids explore and sniff around for awhile until it was time to leave. I wasn't sure which way to go when we left so I said "Let’s just let the road take up somewhere new." I followed the road as it twisted and turned went down and up and curved. I didn't know where I was but the scenery was beautiful and I had a tank of gas. I figured I would come out on a road that sounded familiar so I kept driving and following other cars as they turned in front of me. I was surprised that I wasn't lost when we finally hit 1431. I can say we had a great time and an adventure.

I have a new daughter

I have a new daughter and her name is Bridgett Bardot. She is not a Boston Terrier she is much larger but she came into my life for a reason. I have this habit of visiting the Utopia Animal Rescue's web site and just looking at the pictures of the dogs that they have rescued. Last year I remember seeing one dog with the saddest eyes ever so I clicked on the picture to read Bridgett Bardot is back. It told that she was returned because she had torn up the seat on a four wheeler. I was so outraged that some one would return a dog for a stupid reason like that. I remember telling my daughter Kikki that I wanted to be Bridgett's mom. At the time I was still living in a bad place and Mickey and Domino was still there at my side so I guess it was more of a wish than a plan. I did say that once I was moved and had my own place that if Bridgett was still available I wanted to go to the Utopia Rescue Ranch and adopt her. Well as I have mentioned in my previous post I ended up escaping the bad situation I was in and moved closer to the rescue ranch. Not close enough to volunteer like I would love to do but still much closer than I was before. I moved into my own place on July 9th and two weeks later I drove up to the Rescue Ranch with my friend Sharon for a visit with Cousin Nancy and Tony. Before I left I had adopted Bridgett Bardot and had a new daughter. Bridgett is the sweetest thing and lays by my feet no matter where I am in the house. Mater is a little terror running wild from room to room and she is so laid back and quiet I'm wondering if she will ever play like Mater. I called my kids to tell them they had a new sister and my daughter was ecstatic. She said Mom I'm so glad you adopted Bridgett. That is one more thing that you said you were going to do that actually happened. I can't wait to meet her. Nancy gave me a signed copy of her book The Road to Utopia How Kinky, Tony and I saved more animals than Noah. I was estatic to receive a signed copy and laughed once I got home and saw that she had signed it to Cindy Windy after me telling her the story of how the x had called me that to irritate me. I love Nancy and Tony and all that they do at the rescue ranch. If you have the space for a needy life then go to Utopiarescue.com and look at those beautiful animals that need forever homes. You will never regret opening your heart and your home to a rescued pet.

On Living Alone

Now that I am finally moved into my own place I truly feel independent. To me this is a big accomplishment. I know that I have been an independent person for a long time and had been sole provider for my family for a few years. I was the person that made sure we had a roof over our heads and food in the kids stomachs but for some reason it did not make me feel complete because Tom was always there telling me I was useless. I cannot tell you how good it feels to look around and realize that you are doing it on your own. It is like the first time you realize that you are riding your bike solo and no one is holding on to the seat to make sure you don't fall. Life is meant to be lived to its fullest and I am going to make sure that I live mine. Mater is a little lonely for the Poms that we lived with but hopefully when we go to the Utopia Animal Rescue Ranch next week I will bring him home a brother or sister to keep him company while I am at work or busy cleaning house. I have a lot of unpacking to do and I wonder where I will put my collectibles and craft stuff but I will figure it out the same way I will figure out what to do about not having appliances. As long as I have the mini refrigerator to keep my milk and yogurt in and a microwave to cook soup in I am okay. Last night I chatted on the phone with my old neighbor and friend Alice Branton. She was happy to hear my voice and told me she had called the 1-800-wal-mart number to request they carry Out of the Texas Mist but ended up getting someones voice mail. She said she left a message and was planning on calling again today. You see it is people like her that keep me chugging through life. The people that love and support you because you are their friend. I have been there for her on a number of occasions and now she is there for me. All she ask is I make her a character in my next book. I laughed and said no problem I will need a sidekick to help me find Kinky. Oops I don't want to give away any story details but Kinky will be missing in the third book. Since Case of the Dead Husband is nearly through I have ended up coming up with the third book Case of the Missing Texas Star Who took my Kinky?
I am hoping that the Kinkster will help me on the third book unless he wants to put his two cents into Case of the Dead Husband I guess I can ask him this next week when I go to the Ranch to deliver his copy of Out of the Texas Mist I planned on taking Cousin Nancy a copy too because she has been such a great friend mentioning my book and myself in her blog and encouraging me every time we talk. She said she was excited that I was coming up to find a brother or sister for Mater. I am excited to see her and Tony again and of course I am excited to see Kinky again. I don't think he knows what an influence he has been on me. He is that big bright star in the field of blue on the state flag. Okay he would probably say "don't put me up on a pedestal." My reply would be "but you look so damn good up there on that pedestal." LOL
I just want to thank the Universe for pushing me in the right direction and bringing the right people in my life to make sure that I have the right influence I need to go as far as I can and accomplish all I need to accomplish in this lifetime. I am so grateful.
Now it is time to head off to work and enjoy another day of smearing icing on cakes and hoping they look pretty enough to satisfy the customers. Then I will come home to a sweet little dog that is happy to see me and chew on my arm because I left him alone in an empty house to have to play alone and snooze all day. I will continue to unpack and clean until I feel it is done. If there are boxes left then oh well they will stay packed.

I NEED YOUR HELP!!!

I have been trying to get Wal-Mart to carry my new book Out of the Texas Mist so I can do a book signing at the store I work at. Well I have hit a wall with the Regional Manager. The Vendor that is in charge of buying the books can not do so with out Regional permission. Since the book features Kinky Friedman the Vendor wants to carry the book because it feels that it will be a good seller not just Regionally but possibly State Wide if not throughout the country. They have asked me to get the word out and ask everyone I know to call 1-800-wal-mart or 1800-925-6278 and request that Wal-Mart carry the book. I was told the squeaky wheel gets the grease so lets all ask our family, our friends, our neighbors, our co-workers,associates and any one else that will to call the hot line at Wal-Mart and request the book be carried by the store. I would appreciate all the help I can get. I don't care if you are calling from Timbuck Two there is a Wal-Mart near by so it doesn't matter where the friends or family lives. I know with the book in such a large chain more people will get the chance to read my crazy tale. I think that is what it is all about not so much selling the book but knowing that my little story is being enjoyed by people everywhere. Okay people they think I can't do it so lets show them it can be done. I want that book signing at my store because I have lots of excited associates just waiting to buy the book at work. Here are the particulars you need to know to request the book.
Title: Out of the Texas Mist
Author: Cindy Lou Ruffino
Publisher: Publish America
ISBN: 1-60563-916-8

Thank you for your support
Cindy Lou Ruffino

Murder in a Literal Sense

Murder in a literal sense
Sharon and I were discussing my current project Case of the Dead Husband when she advised me that I need to kill Tom to cleanse my id so I could heal from the years of heartache and abuse. I agreed but I told her that I didn’t want my character to be a bad person because she had at least two more stories to be the heroine and I wanted her to be a fair and decent person except for the lusting after Kinky Friedman thing that seems to work its way into every story. Maybe I need to seek psychiatric help on that avenue. It does make for a funny twist to the two characters friendship though. I’m not sure how the real Kinky Friedman feels about this because he hasn’t voiced any concerns. Maybe he finds it funny too or just realizes that it is a work of fiction. I have already prepared the speech incase he does ask me why my character insist on lusting after his character. “Kinky it is a work of fiction” I advise smiling as I add a wink in for good measure. I am positive this will throw him off and he will change the subject. Regardless the abusive ass of a husband must die in the story so I can rid myself of him in a literal sense. Then hopefully the bad dreams I have been having with him in my life will stop and I can get a good nights sleep. I like the dreams of Kinky better they are fun and full of adventure and I don’t mind missing a little sleep for the Kinkster.

Okay I'm not too old to blush

The crazy great woman I work with named Nicki is a blast to work with. She is teaching me all kinds of things about Cake Decorating. We spend most of our day laughing and she likes to pick on me about a certain man that has caught my eye. Today she and Sharon ganged up on me in Wal-Mart as Sharon and I were shopping and they plan on outing me on the whole attraction thing. I feel sorry for the guy now that I have these two encouraging me. The other day Nickie and I were talking about a certain sexual exploit that I had with a certain sweet fireman back when I was 20 and our supervisor Darrel walked up. The both of us burst out laughing and we turned red. He said "You two were talking dirty wern't you" I blushed immediately then he asked "Cindy why are you blushing?" I couldn't answer I just went back to icing the cake that I was working on. Today as Nickie and Sharon was planning on how to out me I started to blush and Nickie asked why I was turning red. I said because that is what I do. They think I'm ready to move on but I'm just afraid to unleash that crazy woman that has been locked away for nearly 30 years.

Gotta Go Big

After talking to the Book Buyer for Wal-Mart I learned Out of the Texas Mist must be bought Regionally. This is fine by me because the region starts at San Antonio and ends in Waco and Austin. That is a lot of Wal-Marts. I guess what I need is to have friends to call or go by their local Wal-Mart and request that they stock Out of the Texas Mist so the fact that it is wanted will get back to corporate and they will allow the buyer to purchase the books for the store. My manager Darrel was given numbers to the Regional buyer so he could request they stock the book so I can do a book signing. My fellow co-workers have been clamoring to have the book carried in the store so they can buy it at a cheaper price than what is offered online. I agree if Wal-Mart decides to carry Out of the Texas Mist the price will be at a discount thus giving more people the chance to read my little tale. Your help is needed so lets call our local Wal-Marts and request Out of the Texas Mist by Cindy Lou Ruffino be carried so more people can afford to buy.

My first Book signing ?

Today I talked to the Manager of the Wal-Mart that I work at and he said he would be happy to do a book signing for me for Out of the Texas Mist and gave me the name of the guy to talk to that will order the book for the store. He said once we get the books ordered and in the store we can set up the book signing. I am excited. My first book signing at Wal-Mart. WOOO WHOOO!!
When he took my card he looked at me and said I have never met an author before. I replied and see you have been talking to one all along and didn't even know it. Thank you Darrel and thank you Niki for giving me the heads up.

Out of the Texas Mist is ready

I am flabbergasted. I went to my publishers web site just to see if there was a release date only to see that you can buy my book now. Okay here is what else I found out. You can go to your local book store and order it from them or you can go online and order it through Barnes and Nobel or Amazon. Just type in the book title in the search box.
I am so excited. Thank you Kinky for being so understanding because with out your blessing and encouragement for me to submit that little manuscript that flowed from a dream I wouldn't be here now. You are truly my hero. Thank you Nancy for helping me get the word out and most of all thank you to everyone that picks up my little mystery and reads it. It was such a joy to write I hope you enjoy it as much as I did writing it.

Out of the Texas Mist
by Cindy Lou Ruffino
ISBN 1-60563-916-8
http://publishamerica.com
http://barnesandnoble.com

Publish America sent out my Press Releases today

The publisher sent out press releases today. Just one more step wooo whooo


For Immediate Release Contact: Shawn Street – Public Relations pr@publishamerica.com pr@publishamerica.com
http://www.publishamerica.com www.publishamerica.com
PublishAmerica Presents Out of the Texas Mist by Cindy Lou Ruffino
Frederick, MD June 16, 2008
-- PublishAmerica is proud to present Out of the Texas Mist by Cindy Lou Ruffino of Granite Shoals, Texas.

After waking up in a strange vehicle, Cindy realizes that she is in danger. Using her head, she escapes then runs for her life through the dark woods. Waking the next morning in a mist-covered field, she ends up on the doorstep of a familiar-looking man with no idea who she is or where she is at.With the help of this nice cowboy she finds out who she is, then finds out that she landed at the doorstep of her favorite author, Kinky Friedman. Together they try to find her kidnapper to clear her name once her cell phone is found in the hand of a badly mutilated woman. Once they discover the mutilated woman is just one of several, they begin to discover body after body as they get closer to finding the killer.

Cindy Lou Ruffino grew up in Houston, Texas. Out of the Texas Mist, which started from a dream, was written on a spiral notebook before work and during breaks at her neighborhood Kroger, where she worked in the deli.

Cindy lives with her Boston Terrier in the Texas Hill Country.

PublishAmerica is the home of 30,000 talented authors. PublishAmerica is a traditional publishing company whose primary goal is to encourage and promote the works of new, previously undiscovered writers. Like more mainstream publishers, PublishAmerica pays its authors advances and royalties, makes its books available in both the United States and Europe through all bookstores, and never charges any fees for its services. PublishAmerica offers a distinctly personal, supportive alternative to vanity presses and less accessible publishers.END

Memories of a great man

Yesterday was not just flag day to me it was the anniversary of my fathers death. It's hard to believe that he has been gone for 19 years. I have written before how I was a daddy's girl and how he was a great influence on me and my life. I miss him dearly but I know he is watching me and he is proud of the progress in my life. I just wish he was here beside me as my book is about to be released. I just want to see the pride in his eyes as I tell him how excited I am. The publishers asked me for my Media Contacts so this says the big day is nearly here. I remember all the advice my father gave me over the years and I have to admit that I am the person I am because of his gentle voice and his patience. He instilled in me this thirst for knowledge by telling me stories from his life. Both my parents insisted that my siblings and I be respectful to everyone which I feel is an important trait to have. Not everyone is as polite and respectful as they should be. My father was a very patient man and I feel that is where I get my patience from. He was laid back as am I and I even look like him. I just wanted to make this blog a tribute to the man that most influenced my life; James Gayheart Rodd. My father was a stationary engineer and worked in the bowels of the skyscrapers that made the Houston Skyline. I remember once as we drove through the Hill Country him commenting on how much he loved the area and would love to live there. I asked "Daddy why don't we move here?" His answer was "There are no jobs for me here" Well I can say now Daddy I am living in the place we both thought was so beautiful. I am living our dream. I felt I had often let my father down but now I see that he loved me regardless. It's Fathers Day and I want to say Happy Fathers Day to the greatest father a girl could ever want. I love you daddy and I miss you. I am so excited about all the good things to come to me in the future. I wanted to say thanks for giving me the best things about you and because of that I will soar. I love you.
Keyloulou

Good Buddies Mater and Stewie

When I moved here to stay with Sharon and Donald until I was able to get my own place I had one fear, how would Mater get along with Stewie. Well I guess I was worrying for nothing because one picture tells the whole story. The two of them are friends I guess you can say and Stewie is actually playing with Mater and he competes for my attention. They both stand in front of me while I am on the computer and fuss at me. I am so happy the two of them are getting along.

Out of theTexas Mist

Today the publisher sent me my cover art for Out of the Texas Mist. I am excited to see what the cover of my book will look like. Now I have to start pushing my book and myself to the local book stores. I am so excited but still no release date. I was told it could be anywhere from six to eight weeks so I am looking at mid July early August. I can't wait to tell Kinky and Cousin Nancy. Just one more step. Thank you Publish America. Thank you Kinky you're my hero.

A Funny for My Birthday (A must read)

Since today is my Birthday I have had well wishes from all sorts of people along with family and friends. I have enjoyed the evening as Stuart Little has become a puppy once again and started playing with Mater. Then a friend of mine from one of my Boston Terrier sites sent me this cute story. I laughed so hard I had to reprint it here to share with everyone.


This will be hard to appreciate if you haven't had one.

Dave Barry's Colonoscopy Journal


I called my friend Andy Sable, a gastroenterologist, to make anappointment for a colonoscopy. A few days later, in his office, Andy showed me a color diagram of the colon, a lengthy organ that appears to go allover the place, at one point passing briefly through Minneapolis . Then Andy explained the colonoscopy procedure to me in a thorough, reassuring and patient manner. I nodded thoughtfully, but I didn't really hear anything he said, because my brain was shrieking, quote, "HE'S GOING TO STICK A TUBE 17,000 FEET UP YOUR BEHIND!"

I left Andy's office with some written instructions, and a prescription for a product called "MoviPrep," which comes in a box large enough to hold a microwave oven. I will discuss MoviPrep in detail later; for now suffice it to say that we must never allow it to fall into the hands of America's enemies. I spent the next several days productively sitting around being nervous.Then, on the day before my colonoscopy, I began my preparation. In accordance with my instructions, I didn't eat any solid food that day;all I had was chicken broth, which is basically water, only with less flavor .
Then, in the evening, I took the MoviPrep. You mix two packets of powder together in a one-liter plastic jug, then you fill it with luke warm water. (For those unfamiliar with the metric system, a liter is about 32 gallons.)Then you have to drink the whole jug. This takes about an hour, because MoviPrep tastes - and here I am being kind - like a mixture of goat spit and urinal cleanser, with just a hint of lemon.
The instructions for MoviPrep, clearly written by somebody with a great sense of humor, state that after you drink it, "a loose watery bowel movement may result." This is kind of like saying that after you jump off your roof, you may experience contact with the ground.MoviPrep is a nuclear laxative. I don't want to be too graphic, here,but: Have you ever seen a space-shuttle launch? This is pretty much the MoviPrep experience, with you as the shuttle. There are times when you wish the commode had a seat belt. You spend several hours pretty much confined to the bathroom, spurting violently. You eliminate everything. And then, when you figure you must be totally empty, you have to drink another liter of MoviPrep, at which point, as far as I can tell, your bowels travel into the future and start eliminating food that you have not even eaten yet.After an action-packed evening, I finally got to sleep. The next morning my wife drove me to the clinic. I was very nervous. Not only was I worried about the procedure, but I had been experiencing occasional return bouts of MoviPrep spurtage. I was thinking, "What if I spurt on Andy?" How do you apologize to a friend for something like that? Flowers would not be enough.
At the clinic I had to sign many forms acknowledging that I understood and totally agreed with whatever the heck the forms said. Then they led me to a room full of other colonoscopy people, where I went inside a little curtained space and took off my clothes and put on one of those hospital garments designed by sadist perverts, the kind that, when you put it on, makes you feel even more naked than when you are actually naked.Then a nurse named Eddie put a little needle in a vein in my left hand.Ordinarily I would have fainted, but Eddie was very good, and I was already lying down.
Eddie also told me that some people put vodka in their MoviPrep. Atfirst I was ticked off that I hadn't thought of this, but then I pondered what would happen if you got yourself too tipsy to make it to the bathroom, so you were staggering around in full Fire Hose Mode. You would have no choice but to burn your house.
When everything was ready, Eddie wheeled me into the procedure room,where Andy was waiting with a nurse and an anesthesiologist. I did not see the 17,000-foot tube, but I knew Andy had it hidden around there somewhere.I was seriously nervous at this point. Andy had me roll over on my left side, and the anesthesiologist began hooking something up to the needle in my hand. There was music playing in the room, and I realized that the song was "Dancing Queen" by Abba. I remarked to Andy that, of all the songs that could be playing during this particular procedure, "Dancing Queen" has to be the least appropriate.
"You want me to turn it up?" said Andy, from somewhere behind me. "Ha ha," I said.
And then it was time, the moment I had been dreading for more than a decade. If you are squeamish, prepare yourself, because I am going to tell you, in explicit detail, exactly what it was like.
I have no idea. Really. I slept through it. One moment, Abba was shrieking"Dancing Queen! Feel the beat from the tambourine ..." . . . and the next moment,I was back in the other room, waking up in a very mellow mood. Andy was looking down at me and asking me how I felt. I felt excellent. I felt even more excellent when Andy told me that it was all over, and that my colon had passed with flying colors. I have never been prouder of an internal organ.

My Treat

My treat
Since this will be my first birthday alone I decided to treat myself to a nice hot meal tonight. I came home from work tired but I made sure I grabbed a thing of ground beef, some chicken livers, green onions and a box of Tony Chachere Dirty rice mix. Once I cooked it all up the house had a wonderful aroma. My mouth was watering and now I have enough left over to last me for lunch and dinner tomorrow. Yummy! Now I have to figure out what to do Sunday night and my Birthday because I will of course be working. Hey it's Wal-Mart you work holidays and birthdays it's expected.

Six pack

There are two giant babies that I will be responsible for until I guess mid June. Cayden and Calyse are two of the biggest Pits that I have ever met. They are not only big in stature they are the biggest babies you could ever meet. I know I can handle taking care of the house and the two little Poms but the two giants in the back yard will be a challenge for me. For one thing they are a lot to hug. I make sure when I go out there that they get hugs and petting so they do not miss Jeremy and Alexis while they are gone for their wedding and a well deserved vacation. Cayden is a giant puppy that loves to play in the water and attack the hose as you are filling his water bucket and pool. He just goes berserk when you hug him so it is like hugging a wiggling 150 pound kid. I don't know what he weights but I bet it is triple digits. Calyse is a beautiful big loving girl that loves to be hugged. The two of them must be a lot of fun together but I do not want to chance letting them out of their runs because they are not mine and I don't know if I can actually handle the strength they must have for their size. Last night Stewie decided he missed his mom so he climbed in bed with me. It was weird to reach over and put your hand on a fuzz ball when you are half awake. I don't think Mater minded sharing me because Stewart stayed near my head on one side while mater stayed near my middle on the other. Isabell just lays where she wants and she is not really social unless you have snacks or she wants to go outside. I spent the most of my day off working on my book so lets just say it has been a lazy day. I thought it was funny that with the dogs and myself we are a six pack. Three females and three males. I may not be a canine but hey I still count.

Isabell and Stewart

Snake in the grass

Today was my first official day alone. I was lucky to have it also be my first day off. After working six days straight I came home and cleaned up the kitchen. I didn't bother to eat for the second day in a roll. Oh well I will eat today. Well I got up early for a day off, 8am then my cute little pink cell phone rang and it was my baby son Justin. He rarely calls so I was surprised. He just wanted to tell me about everything he has done to his Mustang and how he is happy that Sheena has helped him so much. It is only fair that the Mustang is in her name now. When he asked what I would be doing today I told him mowing the grass. He laughed and said have fun because this is one thing Justin does not do is labor. Once he hung up I dressed and took the dogs out to potty then grabbed the gas can and lawn mower then began mowing the lawn. One thing I have discovered about this part of the Hill Country is the ground is very rocky. Of course we are just down the road from Granite Mountain which supplied the granite to build the State Capital. I guess thus the name Granite Shoals. When the front yard was done I realized that I had to cut the yard next door because this also belongs to Donald and Sharon. That was a breeze and the temp started to rise. When I pulled the lawn mower into the adjoining back yard I was amazed that the grass was almost knee deep in some place. Regardless I worked my way through the high grass one section at a time. The thin grass in the front was no comparison to the thick tall grass in the back. After moving the trampoline I tackled the thickest patch of them all and nearly had a fit when a fat snake slithered out of the tall grass right across my feet followed by two smaller ones just a few feet ahead of me. I tell you they were well fed on bugs and such because they were fat. Once the snake parade passed I completed the job then headed into the house where I sat on my bed and let Mater and Stewie lick me to cool me down. I think
I will shower and relax the rest of my day off now that I have ruined the snakes happy hunting grounds.

As Dictated by the pet

This made me think of Mickey and Domino and then I cried. They gave me their love and devotion I hope I returned it enough for them to have understood they were my life.
Cindy

As dictated by the pet.
~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~
1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you
Is likely to be painful.
2. Give me time to understand
What you want of me.
3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial
For my well-being.
4. Don't be angry with me for
Long and don't lock me up as punishment.
You have your work,
Your friends, your entertainments. But, I have only you.
5. Talk to me. Even if I don't
Understand your words,
I do understand your voice
When speaking to me.
6. Be aware that however you treat me,
I will never forget it.
7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, Remember that I have teeth
That could easily crush the bones in Your hand, and yet I choose not to bite you.
8. Before you scold me for being
Lazy or uncooperative, Ask yourself if something might
Be bothering me.
Perhaps I'm not getting the right food,
Or I have been in the sun too long,
Or my heart might be getting old or weak.
9. Please take care of me when I grow old.
You too will grow old.
10. On that difficult journey,
On that ultimate difficult journey,
Go with me please.

Never say you can't bear to watch.
Don't make me face this alone.
Everything is easier for me if you are there.
Because I love you so.Take a moment today to th! ank God for your pets.Enjoy and take good care of them. Life would be a much duller,
Less joyful thing without God'scritters.Please pass this on to other pet owners. We do not have to wait for heaven
To be surrounded by hope, love, and joyfulness.

It is here now, and it has 4 feet....

Just Icing on the cake

Well with the new life in the Hill Country I ended up with a new job. Okay it is not really a new job but it is a new position. I left Wal-Mart in March because I needed to spend some time with my daughter and grandson. Well I thought I was through with Wal-Mart but I guess I wasn't. My past position there was a cashier but the Assistant Manager decided I would be a great Cake Decorator even though I have no training or work experience. I accepted the position since the pay was the same as I was getting as a cashier. Friday was my first day in the Bakery and lets just say it was a doozie. I am learning how to pipe and decorate and I actually enjoy creating messed up looking cakes. Today I airbrushed a few and they were flying off the shelf. I guess people liked my lake and hillside scenes. Maybe it was because it looked like the lake area here or just the Memorial Day weekend and people wanted a summer look on their cake. Today a customer threw a fit about a cake the cake decorator hadn't started before she had left for lunch thus getting all the Customer Service Managers and the Assistant managers all to come to the bakery and help me disassemble cakes because the cake she wanted didn't exist. Well at least I can say they know who I am now and they speak to me as they pass because they know Cindy Lou just does as she is told. One of the Managers sat and chatted with me as I took my last break a half hour before time for me to leave. He thought it was funny that I was so busy getting all my work done that I lost time. We talked about the last few people that tried Cake Decorating and quit because of the stress. I laughed and said "Well it is actually fun and I'm enjoying it" He said "I'm glad we hope you decided to stay" That made me laugh. Then one of the Managers walked up to me in the break room and ask "Who are you and where do you work?" I said "I'm Cindy Lou and I'm in the bakery" She then walked over to the smoking lounge opened the door and announced "She is Cindy Lou and she works in the bakery." I wasn't sure how to take that but thought okay they know I'm here.
Maybe this Wal-Mart is a crazy place or just all Wal-Marts are crazy places. Needless to say here I go again a Wal-Mart associate and again I am learning a new skill and I am enjoying myself. The problem with working at Wal-Mart is when you get home all you want to do is get undressed and go to bed. That means the only clothes you see when you do laundry is you Wal-Mart uniform and your pajamas. I can say this I have seen so many cakes come and go I am not interested in eating cake.

New Surroundings

Okay I am used to living in the same area for most of my life. I know the Houston area fairly well and have lived in the northern part or just out of the northern part since I married in 1980. When the husband and I separated in 2002 I moved a short distance away but ended up back in the same house. Well I did something totally out of my normal way of doing things I moved 216 miles away to stay with some friends until I get on my feet and get my own place. I don't know the area so I don't venture out much. I will be starting work soon and have learned the way to Wal-Mart and back with out a problem. The funny thing is I love this adventure. I now live in a beautiful area with great scenic views. Sharon took me out the other day for a short drive so we could both get away from the computers for awhile. She had been spending most of her days preparing the agenda and updating the address data base for her Post Polio group the Branson Goers and I had been busily going over the proof sheets the publisher had sent me on my book Out of the Texas Mist. She decided that I needed to see the area before she and her husband Donald left for their three week trip leaving me here alone with the three Poms and my BT Mater. I think she realized that I am a big home body. I grabbed my cameras and we headed out for a short drive so she could test out her newly fixed van before the big trip.

Now I have found out that I will have my own place a lot sooner than I thought. Their son Jeremy and his soon to be new wife Alexis have bought them selves their own place in Kingsland so when they get back from their wedding on June 6Th they will start moving into their new home. Sharon and Donald offered to rent me Jeremy and Alexis's old place next door. I am so excited. I have been independent in thinking and in action for nearly six years but now I will actually be independent. I will have my own place. WOOO WHOOO!

On another note I must say that Mater is loving his new home here and has fun playing or trying to play with the Poms. The funniest thing is he has actually convinced Stuart to play with him. For those that do not know Stuart he is the little Pom that Kinky Friedman rescued with the help of a friend then was unable to keep him because of jealousy issues between him and his dog Mr. Magoo. Stewie as we lovingly call him is a bossy old man whom wants things his way. He is also a ladies man and gets in your lap then demands attention and talks and rambles as you pet him. Mater was a little worried about Stewie getting his attention at first but once he saw that he was the one snuggling up next to me and night and no one else he realized that his place at my side was secure. However Stewie has now started coming into my bedroom and jumping up on the bed with me and Mater wanting a snack because he knows that Mater has goodies in the room. It is heart warming to see the old Pom chasing Mater across the living room and then coming into my room to fuss at him so he will let him chase him. Chocco and Mater play chase once in awhile but so far the 7 month old Mater has more energy than all the poms combined. I just hope Mater adjust to me being gone for work everyday and he may be stuck in his kennel because I am not sure what else to do with a hyper Boston Terrier puppy when you are at work for 9 or more hours. I guess he will be going on a lot of long walks along with the 3 Poms once Donald and Sharon are gone on their trip. How else will I be able to make up for the fact that they will be secluded to small areas while the people are at work or away. It will only be for three weeks so we will all survive.

Well now that the proofs have been sent back to the publisher I am happy to say all that is left now is to design the cover for my book. I am excited about being a published author and look forward to the days to come when I see it actually in print and I start working on getting those important contacts with book stores so I can get them on the shelves and get some book signings set up. All I have to say is LIFE IS GREAT!!!

Always Remember This

Sharon handed me a piece of paper to read this morning and I thought it had such a great point I decided to put it in my blog.

Always Remember This

Somebody is very proud of you.

Somebody is thinking of you.

Somebody is caring about you.

Somebody misses you.

Somebody wants to talk to you.

Somebody wants to be with you.

Somebody hopes you are not in trouble.

Somebody hopes everything turns out all right.

Somebody wants you to be happy.

Somebody can't wait to see you.

Somebody loves you for who you are.

Somebody is glad that you are their friend.

Somebody wants you to know they are there for you.

Somebody needs your support.

Somebody will cry when they read this.

Somebody needs you to have faith in them.

Somebody Trust you.

Somebody hears a song that reminds them of you.

At Peace in the Texas Hill Country

Ready to hit the road

Mater in his nest

Friday May 9th was the big day. When I jumped out of bed I showered then dressed before heading over to the U-Haul store to pick up my truck and auto transport. When I arrived back to the house I began loading up the boxes I had packed. Tom decided to help me load the truck which threw me off a bit. Needless to say I continued to load the truck as he stopped for numerous smoke breaks and complained of the heat. I wanted to be loaded by 1pm but wasn't fully loaded until 2:30. I drove my truck up onto the transport and I was ready to go. Tom and Justin made sure my pretty red truck was strapped down before I pulled out. Placing a comforter in between the two seats in the u-haul truck and throwing in a few toys I made Mater a little nest to ride in. I went inside and bathed Mater then put his harness and leash on him for the long drive. We stopped by Kikki's house on the way out so I could hug my daughter and grandson plus say goodbye to Tulu my grand fur baby. Kikki had made a bag of goodies for Mater and kissed him goodbye. I finally hit the highway at 3:11pm. As I drove down the road I cheered Tally Ho I'm off to my new life. Once I realized that pulling a vehicle behind a big truck it not such a big deal I was enjoying the whole ride. With my driving directions in hand I enjoyed the drive with Mater sleeping most of the way. He did wake up for a little while to stand with his front paws on my leg as he watched me drive then he just curled back up in his nest and went to sleep. I stopped off in Giddings to fuel up and put a whopping $60 in the tank of the U-haul and when I tried to get Mater to come out and take a break he refused. The noise of all the vehicles at the gas station upset him so I climbed back up in the truck, put my straw cowboy hat on and hit the highway again. As I got closer to Austin I remarked out loud to myself that the scenery was beautiful. Mater looked up at me and sighed. Once I was in Austin I noticed the directions did not make a lot of sense so I called Justin and Sheena because I knew they knew the way. Once Sheena told me what to look for I was on the right road and at Hwy 281 before I knew it. That was when the scenery became breath taking. I have to say I feel the Hill Country is the most beautiful place in Texas. When my cell phone rang I answered it and it was Sharon worried about my progress. She was afraid I would have problems since I was a woman alone on a 200 plus mile trip hauling a vehicle.

"Where are you at Cindy?" she asked in a worried tone.

"I'm just coming up near Willie's" I answered as I realized that I was almost there.

"Willie Nelson? she questioned.

"Yep so I'm almost there."
"Well we have some bad weather coming so be careful."

"Yeah I see the lightning off in the distance. Don't worry I'm tough I can handle anything right now I'm on a quest."

"We will keep our eyes out for you."

"See ya soon Sharon bye"

Once I hit Marble Falls and crossed the bridge over the lake it started to sprinkle a bit. Once I found my turn that would take me to Granite Shoals I was nearly there. The sprinkling became a light rain. Making my turn onto the country road at the entrance of their neighborhood the rain became steady. When I found their road and made my turn I let out a long breath because I was almost there. When their home came in sight all hell broke lose. Tree limbs started flying at me followed by a wall of water. I could not see a thing. When I was able to see I pulled up and parked in front of their house and called to let them know I was there but stuck in the truck because it had began to hail. I had arrived at my destination right along with a straight line wind and a storm that blew past fairly fast. Once the rain had left there were four strong men to help me unload. I drove my truck off the transport and parked it in the driveway and we were done for the night. I was tired and so was Mater so we slept very well on an airbed that folded us up like a taco. Saturday morning I had to be at Wal-Mart for my interview. By the end of the day I had a job, a futon bed and a new life opening up for me. I am excited to say that I am here in the beautiful Texas Hill Country and I am happy and at peace. Oh and Mater loves it too.

Mater needs a Moon Pie

With the move getting closer I have been watching Mater play with his brother Noodle. They have a great time but after awhile one gets cranky and a fight ensues. I have decided that Mater being my only baby may be a good thing but what about him being alone once I get my own place and am off at work. I decided that I would get him a playmate from a rescue but I'm not sure if I should get another male or a female. Last night I had a dream that I had went to Utopia and picked up a rescue and her name was Moon Pie. I thought that was so cute of a name that when I do find him a playmate I want to name him or her Moon Pie. Here I am making plans and I haven't even finished packing. The move had to be changed from today to tomorrow because I have to wait for my last paycheck so I can get the uhaul and car toter. That is okay now I just have one more day to pack up more useless junk that I will need once I get my own place. Wow I am so excited about the whole getting my life straight thing and starting my new life in the Hill Country. Now I just need to learn to stay away from the men or at least not get attached.