A Blond, a Goat, a Chick, and a Bullfrog

Last week I  went on a Virtual road trip across the country to visit some of the Cooler Room girls on NutriMirror. This is the story of that road trip and how it played out. It wont make a lot of since to most reading it but I have to tell you it was a lot of fun. Last year you may recall the Virtual party we had at the The Broke 4 BBQ and Dance or the one we had before that at Carla's Virtual Garden Party.
I started my trip from Louisiana, drove up to Brush Prairie,Washington to Sheryl's. Then South to Pam and Jim's in California. Also while in their state I meet JC, Carla, and Sue. My travels then took across Kansas to  Debra's home then onward to Granny's in Owasso, Oklahoma  The end of my journey was in the home town of Mineral Wells, Texas to see Tammy, but she wasn't home so I traved on to see Elaine in Pennsylvania.

I have been driving since the wee hours of the morning on the way to Sheryl's house....remember...this is my week of travels to see each of you for a day. I filled the Mazda with gas and have my water and snacks for the drive. It's still dark out and about to rain. 
Sheryl, I should be at your house around 10:30 if not earlier. Can't wait!!!
Sorry I missed the tea this morning, Elaine, but will try to grab a cup before I leave in the morning at a gas station on the way to your house.....I better pay attention to my driving now...

Had to stop and go to the bathroom and stretch my legs. I didn't realize you lived so far, Sheryl. Its raining harder now and How did you know I was bringing Billy Bob? That was to be a surprise!!! Billy Bob has already eaten the directions to your house and was about to get my cell phone when I caught him! You should see the looks the truck drivers give as they wave and honk and zoom by...they cant be honking at me, its Billy! lolo! Tell Bandit and the girls we will be there before long. I cant wait to see what your place looks like and meet all your barn yard friends. Will you take me for a ride in your new car, that would be so much fun!
Well, I better get back on the road. I will see you soon!

Betty, you said that your road trip included Billy Bob when you first told us about it. I figured you chose me first because I AM the furthest away, then you can stop by everyone else's place as you travel back towards home. (Not wise to go to Elaine's next, or you'll be criss-crossing the country back and forth and spending more time on the road). I think the next stop should be South to see Pam and Jim, Carla, JC and Sue, then head back towards the east and make your stops in Kansas (Debora), Oklahoma (Granny) and Texas (Tammy). You can even then, stop by your house to re-supply and refresh before heading to PA (Elaine) and MA (Delmar). See how efficient I am????
OK, who did I miss.
Oh, I checked the list above...you can swing by Billie's on your way out of town, actually I want to go with you, I want to see Billie and Billy Bob face to face. You know that goat is her nemesis.
On your way through California, stop by Linda's and also see Isabella and Nancy when you get to Southern CA.
And, also, check on Mel when you get to PA.
I think I've taken over your itinerary. Sorry for being so bossy.
Where are you now? Call me!!

I just got off the phone with Sheryl and she gave me great directions to her house and said she even planned out my trip for me. That's great, since I am so wishy washy forgetful at times. 
I should be at Sheryl's in about thirty minutes if not less. Billy Bob is restless and needs a potty break ...Again!!!

My hubby called me a while ago and said take my time, he would be roping all week and next weekend so I don't have to hurry home. That will give me time to visit with everyone and sight see also. Be there soon, Sheryl.

Wow....Sheryl, you made the best lunch and made sure we were still green. Jim would be so proud of us! Billy Bob is having so much fun with all his new friends and I really love your place....you do have a lot of animals .. No not you John! Let me run freshen up from the long trip and then you can take me for a ride in your new car... Stop that Billy, I saw you through the window! You don't butt heads with new friends. Don't mark your territory either. Stop!!! All ready for sight seeing the great Pacific Northwest. We'll drive (don't you just love my new car?? So roomy and such a comfy ride) on the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway. At first, it looks very commercial...Factory Outlet Stores in Troutdale. But soon, we'll be in the beauty of Forest mixed with the Columbia River. We'll stop at a few small cascades and there's picnic areas for potty breaks and whenever you want a snack, we'll sit at a table, or maybe a stump. Look Betty, it's Multnomah Falls, isn't it gorgeous??? One of my favorite spots. Two summers ago, Nancy and I hiked all the way up to the top. It was fantastic, although, I would NOT stand near the edge. Nancy is so brave, she just marched right up to the very edge and I think she tried to hang over a bit. She taunted me and got a couple of other tourists to egg me on too, but I stood my ground...at least 10 feet away. We'll stop at Crown Point, a vista that is spectacular. You can look east and I swear you can see Idaho, look west and there's the Pacific Ocean where the fresh water Columbia empties into salt water. On our drive back, we'll stop at Larch Mountain. Another beautiful hike through the forest and when you reach the top, you can see ALL AROUND OREGON AND WASHINGTON. The view is phenomenal, from one spot, you can see 5 grand mountains, Mount Hood, Mount St. Helens, Mount Adams, Mount Jefferson and Mount Rainier. Breath-taking, both in the view and the hike up here, it's a workout. Next time you visit, we'll drive north to see Mount St. Helens up close. It's been 23 years since she blew her top off and it's still amazing. I hope you liked the trip. We'll do a few chores at home later and you'll sleep well tonight. Are you sure you can't stay a few more days? Betty, Betty, hurry up, get under cover...we're having a little "system" pass through and it's hailing. Baby pellets, but ouch, that hurts. It was bright sunshine 1/2 hour ago, a few showers earlier this morning, but that's what we expect in our neck of the woods. Variety!! Billy Bob and Bandit just danced through the short storm. The girls are all huddled in the stalls. Ducks and geese don't care, they say "let it rain, let it storm, more water for us to make puddles into lakes". The chickens honker down wherever it catches them. Oops, we left the door cracked open again and Robin and CC are in the kitchen. Let's let our chores go for the rest of today and just dance our cares away... Man, oh man, that was a close one, Sheryl! I was scared to death when that storm hit! Do they come up that fast all the time? Sure glad everyone's OK! Look at all this hail. Thank you so much for the sight seeing trip today! You are a beautiful host. I sure wish I could stay more than just tonight but I must be on my way very early in the morning. I'm going to use your route for my travels since you know where everyone lives. Tomorrow I will head to see Pam, Mike, and Jim. I hope she gets on line today so she will know but if ya would could ya call her and give her a heads up while I run check on Billy Bob? Oh , I forgot. Do you have any goat feed? I was going to buy some today but forgot when I saw the Falls and how beautiful it is here! I'm so glad I got to come on this trip and started at your house!!!! Want some help with those chores now? Let me carry that pail. You have thought of everything, Sheryl. Billy Bob ate all the snacks and drank all the water I had packed for the trip. Tell me where you want me to put my bag and ill unpack some photos I brought to show you of how much the granddaughter has grown. She also sent you a drawing she colored to hang on your frig. Lets see if we can get your sweet hubby to take our photo and I brought my Balanced Days book for your to sign. Can I help you do anything? I'll pack up all the things I think Billy Bob will need for the road. Local Grass Hay - check! (We don't spend money for alfalfa, since the llamas don't need 'rich' food) Pellets - check! (I'll pack llama treats. chicken layer pellets and rabbit pellets are all pretty much the same, but goats are most like the llamas) Water - check! (It's in a spill-proof container, so don't worry about the Mazda) Blanket - check! (Just in case you get caught in a cold snap) I'll get a picnic basket ready for you too, but, we don't have to pack the car until morning. There's a little clearing over head now, lets go outside while we can. Dark clouds to the North, coming this way, we won't be outside for long. Yes, this time of year the systems move in quickly, and then they are gone just as fast Sheryl and Betty, it's me , Elaine! What a fun time you had together. You're pretty brave to travel with Billy Bob with all he gets into. Good thing you're not headed this way with all the snow. Although it has not been as bad here as they said it would be. The temp hung right around 32 so that helped the roads. We do have some drifting here in the country so not going anywhere till roads are cleared. Betty, I'm thinkin' you should hold me off 'til the end of your trip since I am still not up to par. I also have to go get my IV on Friday morning. I guess you could keep me company while I am getting it. Do you have a day in mind that you might make your appearance? It's not very exciting around here, so bringing Billy for entertainment is probably a good idea. We do have a couple of slave cemeteries you could visit and maybe go see some of the houses that housed the underground railroad. Betty, Its me, Nancy... I'd love for you to drop by my place when you're in So Cal, but I don't really have room for that goat. Also, I have rehearsal. ("I can't; I have rehearsal," is a joke among my friends...I always have rehearsal and can't do anything with them. Actually, I don't have any friends.) Also, I recommend you drop Billy Bob off somewhere before you visit granny. She's been layin' for that goat as long as I've known her. Actually, I've eaten goat too. However, I can't butcher or eat my own goats as they are like dogs, and know me, my car... I love their company. I didn't realize it was getting so late Sheryl.  I was wondering if I can help you do anything? What time do you and your hubby go to bed. I promise not to talk your ear off all night. Your so easy to talk with and I am a motor mouth. How do you like those photos I brought? Ha ha ha, I HAVE to share with you all...Had a gorgeous hour or so outside and Betty and I got all the apple tree pruning s heaved onto the brush pile. Ready to burn later, when it's dry. Thanks, Betty. We got a lot done in between rain showers. While we were working, John was in the pasture playing with Bandit and Billy Bob. That goat has taught Bandit some 'nasty' tricks, and before he knew it, John got butted, still not sure by which animal, and ended up in the mud. We were all laughing so hard that Betty and I just about slipped in the mud. At least it wasn't poop. (The little poop pellets are fairly benign). I swear, even the chickens and ducks were laughing. The llama girls immediately came over to John to check on him, they are so protective of him. They really love him. Bandit and Billy Bob looked around innocently...what happened? We hosed off, brrrrrr cold, not the right time of year to hose down outside. Thanks for helping with the laundry, Betty.  Take a hot shower and then get settled in the spare bedroom. We'll warm up and sit at the dining room table for awhile. I would love to see your photos. Oh, what a treasure, a special picture for me from Emily. Thank you so much. If John weren't here and we were sharing the bedroom, like what Granny and I did last summer, we would talk all night. Just as we were ready to drift off to sleep, one of us would say something and the conversation would take off again. I love slumber parties!!   We just do whatever we feel like, whenever it feels good. But, you must be tired though, still on LA time, plus all that driving, PLUS dealing with that goat! Not a bit, but I'm on Louisiana time which yours will catch up with me about midnight tomorrow. Thank you for the cup of sipping Chocolate you found at Trader Joe's. It sure is good and will help me sleep. Did you ever sign my book, or did I unpack it yet? I'll go get it...opps, Billy! How Did You get In Here? Oh Sheryl, I am so sorry. I must have left the gate open and he just wanted to visit with us. Sheeewww...Get out side! I will put him back in your pasture and then clean this up. I am so sorry!  ha ha ha ha Shhhhhh, don't tell all the ladies around the PBS, but I was the one who made that mess. I'm very messy and I let Billy Bob in to take the blame. Glad you like the sipping chocolate, it's my favorite too. I hate to be a party poop Sheryl, but I cant seem to keep my eyes open. If you don't mind I will go to bed. I think I will sit my travel clock for 5 am, help you feed the animals and get Billy Bob cleaned up before he gets in my Mazda. Hugs Sweetie! See you in the morning. Nite!  What a RUCKUS on and off all night long. Betty is going to be exhausted...all this traveling and now, not even getting a good night's sleep. Wow, maybe she slept through it ?!??!!! I don't know how noisy or quiet her place is in Louisiana, maybe she can sleep through anything. The two older male geese were fighting, and then EVERYBODY joins in with the yelling and screaming. John even went out last night to the enclosure to try to get one of them out, but was not successful. Tally (the goose, not our favorite little mischief maker) who is usually the 'underdog' seems to be taking over being "Alpha Goose" from Larry. Larry is limping this morning, so he really got the rough treatment and lost out on this latest takeover. Lucky, the "Alpha Female" just watched and cheered, not sure who she was cheering for, she mates with both of them...the slut! Ahhh, Spring. Time for Love in the Air and lots of rivalry for the little ladies' hearts. Betty is trying to do her swim aerobics in the stock tank. Two of the ducks are swimming laps with her. Of course, Mae and Speckles are actually swimming laps, Betty takes one full stroke and hits the edge of the 8' round pool. Com'on Betty, I've got your tea ready and then we'll go for a walk. Swimming will have to wait until you're in Southern California. Nancy can take you to her sister's house and you can show Elizabeth how to do swim aerobics. I had such a good time at Sheryl's house yesterday. This morning we had a wonderful walk threw the woods and the weather was just right and even Billy Bob tagged along. Swimming for exercise was hard but I did manage to get some jumping jacks in the duck tank. Thank you Sheryl for packing my car and helping me get Billy in the seat. He really didn't want to go. Well, I left Sherly and Johns house around eight. A late start but she's such a gracious host. I had a ball! Pam and Jim, I should arrive about noon if I don't have to stop. I'm driving in my Mazda Miata. I'll be the only one with the goat in the passenger seat. Lol! The drive along the coast line this morning has really been breath taking. Hope we get to sit down and talk about what I am doing wrong after three years plus on Nutrition Mirror. Seems I got off track with my comfort zone. This past week on E28 has opened my eyes. Can't wait to meet y'all in person and get to know y'all better....since y'all are my heros! See ya soon....Stop that Billy!!  I love the this drive to Pam and Jim's....Zoom Zoom, Zoom... Sirennnnnnnnnn...pull over... Oh no, was I speeding officer? No , I wasn't texting. I have voice over control, and no, the goat wasn't driving!! He doesn't have a drivers license, I'm sorry, I was just trying to be funny. Please don't write me a ticket! I was just talking to friends at Nutrition Mirror, and...what, you log on there? Wow, would you sign my book, Balanced Days ? Yes, I'll slow down and I will tell Jim And the gang hello for you. Thank you, officer.... See Billy, I told ya, ya could drive without getting us in trouble. Do you know how hard it was to switch seats before that officer had a chance to get out of his car? Thank goodness, he was a NM member! Now go to sleep! We still have about an hour before we arrive in the hills and to Pam's house. Zoom, zoom, zoom, Betty, John and I miss you already. And, Bandit misses Billy Bob. The girls couldn't care less that the goat is gone, actually I think they're saying, "good riddance", he just didn't impress them, those snooty, aloof, 'little miss independence' snobs. It seems the only one they care about is John. Wow, that was a close one with that great big Officer. At first, I thought it was Danny (dlnewcomer), but then remembered, he's a fireman, not a policeman. How did you ever let that goat talk you into letting him drive...I really thought you were smarter than that. Oh yes, now I remember, you're a RISK taker. Have fun, zoom, zoom, zoom I finally got here... Oh Pam, your as pretty and petite as your photos and Jim, your a handsome man. Y'all's place is so pretty on the hill and I love the view of the valley. I hope we get to hike it today. Oh, let me get Billy Bob out of the car seat. I had to strap him in about an hour ago, because he kept hitting the dash with his head. I'm glad we had him dethroned that time at the old place. Oh my, how the heck...oh no, look what I found in the truck with my suit case. How did this yellow chick get in there? That's one of Sheryl's! Poor thing, must have gotten in there when we loaded the car this morning, and looks like it could use some water. I'll tie Billy to this post here near your garage. I can't believe I'm getting to finally meet y'all! It's like meeting the King and Queen of Nutrimirror land. I can't wait to ask y'all all the questions I wrote down. Later, y'all will have to show me your place, but right now, can I please use your rest room and get some water for the animals? Thanks, Jim, for taking my bag...I'll get my book and purse. Pam, can you carry Sheryl's chick? I really don't know what to do with it except leave it here tomorrow when I have to leave unless you have a dog.? No dog here, maybe some coyotes later at night. That settles that, the chick is traveling with you! Let's walk down the hill. We discovered a pond after 2 old dead avocado groves were removed. The weather's great. So happy you had a safe trip. When Jim and I get to meet any of our NM peeps we feel like we're meeting celebrates! Pam, that was quit a walk. I didn't know that hill was so steep. I'm OK from the fall and roll. I only bruised my ego. I can't wait to see what you have planned for the rest of the evening. Will Mike be stopping by? Lets sit here on your lawn and sign each others NM books. Jim, I know you wrote in mine when I bought it, but do you mind signing it again. Who knows, one day these signatures might be worth a lot of cash...I mean cabbage. Billy sure likes it in y'all's garage. He and the yellow chick are keeping each other company. I hope I can stand two animals traveling with me for the next few days. People are gonna think I'm strange! Oh Pam, dinner was Delicious! Was that recipe in the Balanced Book? OK  Jim, here are a few of my questions. Lets sit down and see if you can help me after I help Pam with the dinner dishes. That was such a grand tour you took me on today Pam. I didn't realize you lived in such a pretty valley. Your blog photos that time you fell looked like mountains and those hills you call hiking in are really mountains to this Southern girl. I bet im going to be so sore tomorrow when I leave. I sure hate to go. I bet if I hanged out here for even a week you two could teach me so much about nutrition. Here, this is the last plate... OK Jim , I'm ready! LETS SEE... 1. How do I log getting in and sweating in my Dry Sauna for one hour at 150 degrees? You sweat a lot, trust me. 2. How come I cant get green on the days I try the hardest? 3. Looking at Pam's food log and how tiny she is, do we always have to eat 1200 calories or more? 4. Is there a way to jump start our body's so they can those of us that are retired and still active can boost our metabolism? 5. Why is the report for daily calories based on working mostly? I stay active all most everyday, but I don't work. 6. More personal note....why haven't you wrote volume two of Balanced Days yet? and are you working on that?  I guess I will take a breath and listen to what you have to say. I sometimes get too ahead of myself. Sorry! I wonder, Pam, if Carla knows I will be coming by her place tomorrow? I wont be staying the night there since I want to see Sue and JC also! If its not to late and I get a chance, I will stop by each of their homes tomorrow. Hope they are all home. I think Sheryl called them and gave them a heads up!. Well, I better go check on Billy Bob and the yellow chick. Wanna go with me Pam?  Oh there's a text from Isabella... Betty, your travels are anything but boring. With the snow I don't know if you'll want to come here - can't do much outdoors but I could take the chick off your hands. Ralph has not ordered new chicks yet so he would really enjoy it. Traveling with those animals keeps everything interesting. Betty, don't forget I am just down the road a ways south from Carla. I have a 2 bedroom "patio home" but the second bedroom is an office. We could put you on an air mattress but the goat will have to stay at Carla's. :o) Or instead of putting up with sleeping on an air mattress maybe we can all meet for dinner at Carla's favorite restaurant Hacienda de Vega. I'll look forward to seeing your smiling face.  I guess I am meeting Isabella, Carla, JC, and Sue would meet me at Hacienda de Vega for lunch tomorrow at 1:30. Pam, would you like to follow me in your car and join us? Lets get up really early around 5 am and walk and then after a early breakfast, Jim can help me get Billy Bob in the Mazda and I guess yellow chick is going too! Yawn, I better go to bed. Jim already fell asleep with all our girl talk. I think I wore him out with so many questions tonight. Well, I hate to be rude, but seems sleep is catching up with me now. Good night Pam. goodnight Jim! See y'all in the morning. Billy's fine in the garage when I last checked.  Good morning! I have been driving since around 5:30. Had a really nice Crosby walk with Pam and Jim this morning and then a hot bowl of oatmeal with raisins. Billy Bob is strapped in the passenger seat and already asleep and yellow chick is under him staying warm. Traffic is not bad. I better turn the radio up and crack the window. I'm still a little sleepy. See Carla, Sue, JC, and Isabella at 1:30 for lunch. Can't wait to get there. Stopping long enough to stretch my legg's and let the animals do their thing. I got a voice mail from Pam while driving this morning, but it was too late, I missed her wanting to ride with me! I hope she comes anyway in her car. Maybe shes not far behind me.  Well, I think I will freshen my makeup and hair in the truck stop bathroom and get Billy Bob and yellow chick something to drink. Jim was nice enough to run down to the local feed store before I left and bought me some goat feed and some chicken scratch. I still cant get over all the looks I get when the truck drivers pass my car. And one lady passed and didn't stop laughing. I'm sure we look strange...A blonde, a Goat, and a yellow chick in a Miata... Heading North now on the 15 and making great time. I should be at Hacinda de Vaga right on time to meet the girls. JC called and said she was getting her hair done for the occasion and would meet us there but to order some cheesy thing. I guess Pam will know what that is. I'm starving since my Oatmeal and Raisins I had this morning with Pam and Jim. Haven't decided yet if I'm going on towards Kansas tonight to Debora's (arobed), but I may since the weather is beautiful. First I want to eat and visit with the girls over a long lunch. Hope everyone brings their NM books to sign. Well Hello...its so good to meet all of you finally and what a very nice place to meet for lunch. I did tie Billy Bob up near the main fountain and put the chick in the water to swim around. JC helped me give the goat some hay. I don't think he will get loose. The little kids were having so much fun talking to him so he wont get lonely! Billy Bob...Stop aggravating that poor yellow chick. BEHAVE!...Where is Tally when I really need help? The ride here was wonderful and so is today's weather. We couldn't have asked for better. Debora called and said the weather was horrible at her place and didn't think I could get there on those roads, so I am heading for Granny's place next. What all do yall like here? OH here comes Pam, she did make it so she wasn't too far behind me! Everything looks so good on the menu but I think I will have the Filete de Vega, a choice filet mignon grilled to perfection and topped with pasilla chile sauce. Served with house potatoes and Mexican zucchini. Unsweetened Tea, Please. I cant have a Margarita, Carla, I'm driving tonight. The last time I let the goat drive I almost got a ticket. lol!  Tell me something about each of you! Oh this is so much fun... crash...crash...bang! Oh No! Billy Bob got untied! Hes running over here! STOP! I'm so sorry MR! DON'T EAT THAT LADYS PURSE, BILLY! STOP! Thank you Pam for catching him. The manager said he wouldn't kick us out. Best entertainment hes seen for the kids in days. Lets tie him to the back door for now. I will deal with him later! Wow,We had a three hour lunch. I am so full and had such a good time. JC brought me an Oil painting of Horses in a pasture. We all signed our Balanced Days books, laughed a lot! Billy Bob and yellow chick are fine and acted good the rest of Lunch. We are now traveling towards Granny's in Oklahoma and since its late I think I will stop and get a hotel room, sneak Billy Bob and the chick in and get some sleep.  I should be at Granny's sometime mid morning or close to lunch. Hope she lets us stay the night. Betty its me, Granny .If you get here before noon you can help me eat some of that humongous pot of soup I made. G-ma and I didn't make a dent in it. I made a pan of cornbread also. It goes really well together.  Then, since you are coming tomorrow, you will need to go to the funeral with me and you can meet some of my church members. It starts at 2 PM. You are very welcome to spend the night. I will even let you sleep in my bed and I will sleep on the couch. I changed the linens this morning. I don't know what you will do with Billy Bob though. I don't have any goat food either, but I have heard they will eat anything. I might could rustle up some tin cans. I guess you could put him in the bathroom, but you will have to clean up the mess. I was planning on you re-arranging my furniture, but Pam K beat you to that. Now you can see my nice apartment looking like it used to look before I became an invalid. There really isn't a lot of things to do for fun around here. We could go to the Center on Friday morning and you could either exercise or watch G-ma shoot pool. That's about all the excitement I get around here. I won't even have my babies for you to get acquainted with. If you like salt in your food you will have to add some to the soup we'll have for lunch. I always use a little No Salt on mine. We may go to Wendy's for some dinner. They have some great grilled chicken salads. I'll make us some pumpkin pancakes for breakfast. I love those things Well, I'm all settled in at the hotel and Billy Bob and yellow chick are passed out all ready. I threw a blanket on the floor since the hotel had an extra one in here. Do you think they will smell goat when they clean up tomorrow? Well, I better get some sleep. I should be at Granny's before noon. She texted and said she has soup cooking and a whole day planned. I think we're going to Church.... Yes, Betty, we are going to church, but only for a little while for the funeral. I have never been to the church where the funeral is being held, but I know approximately where it is located. I don't plan to go to the cemetery, though, since I'm not all that steady on my feet to walk on uneven ground and stand for a long time. I just need to put in an appearance for Stan's sake. I sure wish we could talk him into being our SS teacher now that he will have more time on his hands. He has taught a few times and did an excellent job. I sure wish he could lose some of that weight he is carrying since his knees and back are so bad. Guess I better begin my day and finish getting prepared for Betty and her entourage. Guess I'll put the yellow 'chick' in the bathtub for fun. That's the only  place I have for him to swim. We have the swimming pool, of course, but it is always so nasty in the winter time that he would probably get sick if he went swimming in it. Besides it is pretty cold out there. Right now it is 30, but going up to 47. Dropping back down to 24 tonight. Hope y'all have a great day, and Betty drive carefully. I think you must be flying low to make all those visits so far apart in such a short time. Good morning,  Well, I have been on the road about an hour. Was sleeping good this morning until Billy Bob jumped on the bed. He had to go out so I put my other coat on him and my sun glasses and took him out the back door of the hotel. I went ahead and put him in my car after he was done, so I would have that much out of my way before we left. Went back in to find that the yellow chick was swimming in the toilet. What a morning! Anyway, after a quick breakfast of what ever kind of eggs those were in the lobby and getting to the car to leave, I found Billy Bob was sitting in his seat with the sun glasses on, and people standing around the car. I was a little embarrassed. I zoomed out of there before someone told on us. I should be at Granny's around 11:00. The roads have been good and the goat and chick have been better. I'm turning up the music and jamming down the road....Granny, here we come....Zoom, zoom, zoom! Knock, knock.... Well, hello...Granny...hugs, hugs, hugs. This is Billy Bob and this is Sheryl's yellow chick who is a stow away on this trip. Ya don't have a dog or cat do you? I had to sneak Billy Bob in past your neighbors so they won't tell your Super. I stopped by Penny's on the way and bought a simple dress to wear to your friends funeral. I am so sorry for your loss! Can I help you do anything? I washed my car last night near the hotel so it would be clean for you to get in. It doesn't smell like goat, Granny! Not at all. He has been a little gassy since he got loose yesterday at the luncheon with the girls. He must have grabbed a few bites off someone's table. Something sure smells good coming from your kitchen.. Please, let me help you do something.... Hi Betty. You're right on time. The soup is ready and the cornbread is done. You can set the table after you get Billy Bob confined in the bathroom. I'm glad you brought food for him and yellow chick. They can eat while we have our lunch. Then you can put little chick in the tub to swim. Your car looks really nice and spotlessly clean. I'm glad you got the goat smell out, too. I'm going to enjoy having you here so much. You are so beautiful. My friends will all be jealous. After lunch we will get ready to leave for the funeral, then if you want we can drive around the big city of Owasso. It won't take long. The whole town is contained in about a 3 square mile spot. Oh Granny, that was wonderful soup and corn bread. I have to have the recipe! Thank you so much for letting Billy Bob and yellow chick stay in the bathroom. They were asleep when I checked on them.  I will sleep on the couch tonight, I wouldn't dream of taking your bed. Lets get dressed for the funeral and then we will have time to sit and exchange each others Balanced Days books to sign. Oh before I forget, Sheryl sent you some photos and a book she thought you might want to read. Ya wouldn't want to keep her yellow chick as a pet, would you? She doesn't eat much... Granny , I noticed you had your butcher knife out on the counter and a Hugh chopping block. We're you going to be cooking or Chopping later? That sounds like a good plan. We'll have some time before we have to leave. The funeral is about 2 1/2 miles from here, so it won't take long to get there. Glad you like the soup. I don't really have a recipe. I just use some unseasoned rotisserie chicken breast and dump in everything I can find in the frig, open a can of no salt added tomatoes, some herbs and spices, and cook till it is all done. I promise I won't use the cleaver on Billy Bob. I think I can tolerate him for a couple of days as long as he isn't mean to me. No thanks, I don't want the yellow chick. No place for him to live in my apartment. I don't want to make a cage in my living room like Sheryl has for Houdini. I don't want to have a guest sleep on the couch. We could both sleep in the bed like Sheryl and I did if you want to. You might not get much sleep, though. We would probably talk all night. It would be such fun. OK, let's get ready to go. Oh Granny, that's sounds fun! Reminds me when I would go home and see my Mom and we would talk and talk until one of us fell asleep. That would be fun! I have a personal question to ask you....who is Monk? I have been wanting to ask you that for the last three years...is he you companion? Will he be coming over later? What about G'ma? Will she be here also? I better take Billy out to the bathroom. Do you have a big scarf I could put on him so he won't be noticed? I could put him in that wheel chair you borrowed and we could play like its my dad and were just pushing him around outside. The yellow chick is loving your tub but splashing water all over the bathroom. I will clean it up...sorry! Betty, do you really not know who Monk is? No he is not my companion. He is the star in a weekly show that used to be on TV and I tried to never miss an episode. He is a strange man who has very strange actions, but is a brilliant detective and can solve cases that no one else can solve. No he will not be coming over later unless you want him to. He comes on Friday nights for 2 hours and again on Sunday afternoons from noon till 8 PM. I always record all the episodes, and even though I have seen all of them more than once, I still enjoy watching them again. If you want to see him I'll ask him to come over. He is available any time I want him to come. He came last evening so G-ma could visit with him. No G-ma won't be here today. Now that I am self sufficient the only time she comes is on Wednesday evenings and sometimes on Sunday evening. Those are the evenings when G-pa has a job to do at church and she stays home. She only goes on Sunday mornings. My babies won't be here either since I haven't started babysitting again yet. That will be the best way to sleep. I just hope you get enough sleep for you to make the drive you must make the next day. We can sleep as late as we want to, though. I must finish getting ready for the funeral. You already look really nice. I love that little dress you got for the occasion, but you would look terrific in anything you put on. I love your hair, and you are so cute and petite. I am almost ready. This is a nice church, Granny! So many people! Do you want to go to graveside too? What is your friends name again? Do you have any tissue ? I cry easy.... born Nov. 28, 1927   died Feb. 23, 2013  Oh Granny, that was a really nice service. All your church members were so good to me and had nice things to say. I am glad I got to go with you today and share in the memorial. Lets let the animals out then take a ride in my Miata around the town. You can tell me all about it as we tour. Ready? That was fun showing you the town, what little there was of it. You should have seen it about 10 years ago. One little tiny Main Street, and not much of anything on it. It has grown by leaps and bounds since then. Like I said, though, it is still all in about a 3 square mile area. Are you about ready for dinner? We could go next door to Mazzio's Pizza and have their salad bar. That is what G-ma and I like to do a lot. They have a wonderful salad bar, and we don't miss not having pizza. Or we could go some place else. What are you hungry for? Or we could have some more soup. I'm glad you liked the service. And my friends are some of the nicest ones in town. The lady's name who was buried is Bettie Cearley, and her husband's name is Stan. The were really nice people, too. That is not the church I attend. We only have a little office building for our church and less that a hundred people in attendance. That church we were in today would probably hold 3000. It's a big church. It's the one Stan and Bettie went to before they came to Dalton Hill Church where I go. OK, you name what you want to eat and we'll find it. First I have to put away the groceries we got on the way home from the funeral. Lots of fresh fruits and veggies. Those nice avocados were only 19 cents each. I'm glad you like the T-Shirt I bought you. I had so much fun on our ride around town, Granny. Here, let me help you put away the grocery's. The produce here is so much better looking than that in Louisiana. Do you want some pizza ? That sounds good to me. I think we must have burned a lot of calories today. I took Billy Bob out already and I put the chick in the bath room sink so we can get our baths. Do you have any of this Monk recorded? I should would like to see him. I don't know why I never saw him on TV unless its because my husband always has some cowboy movie on or rodeo. That's properly what's he's doing while I'm gone this whole week. I called Tammy while you were getting out of your dress clothes and told her I would be there tomorrow evening around time for her to get off work. I'll stay the night with her and then head back to Sheryl's to return her yellow chick since my hubby said I can't keep him. I think Sheryl and I will go see Billie so she can meet the goat. Well, I'm going to get my jacket, lets go eat that pizza! I'm starving!!  OK, you can have the pizza, I'm gonna stick with the salad bar. As soon as we get back I'm gonna be ready for bed. You look tired and sleepy also. You know me. I go to bed very early. It should be getting close to 8 o'clock by the time we get back home. You can get your bath tonight. I always get my early in the morning since I don't blow dry my hair and it needs time to dry. It takes it about 2 hours to dry. I may get up earlier than you do since I can't seem to sleep past 5, so I'll just share the bathroom with Billy Bob and put the chick in the sink again. I hope Billy Bob won't mind sharing long enough for me to get a shower. It doesn't take me long. I like to just get in and out in a hurry. I never have enjoyed long baths or showers like some people do. OK let's get out of here and go eat. I think I will have the salad bar also. I am tired. Lets retire early so we can talk and see who falls asleep first...Ready to go eat? I am so full. That was really good, Granny. I have had such a nice time with you today. Thank you for letting me stay with you and for making me feel so at home. Billy Bob and yellow chick have been so good today, the best they have behaved all week. He must since that you could BBQ him if hes bad. Lol! I looked on my phone to find Bettie's obit and to see what the name of the cemetery was, but couldn't find it. Here, can you show me? Remember, I'm a find a grave volunteer and make memorial almost daily plus grave hunt all the time. Hay, Granny, read this..... Bettie Cearley was born Nov. 28, 1927 to Nelly (Ned) and Euel Brooks in Arkansas. She was born and raised in Arkansas and attended Gravette schools. She later moved to the Tulsa area and met her husband, Stan. They have been married since 1965. Mr. Cearley brought one child into the marriage and she brought three. She enjoys the visits from her family members, including her many grandchildren and great- grandchildren. Bettie and her family love to go camping and fishing together. Did you know she was Mayor once? Wow. She was a busy person. She was a pretty women also. The funeral was so nice. I feel like I knew her. I bet she was a good friend. Do you want to watch at least one Monk before bedtime? Ill go check on the animals and feed them and take Billy Bob for a walk to pee. Be right Back!  Well that was a quick dinner, but I simply must go to bed. I guess that isn't nice to go to bed when you have company, but I am just exhausted. I hope you don't mind. I really think you could use the extra rest also. You have a trip ahead of you tomorrow. Good night. Betty. I'll put on a Monk show and you can watch it till you get sleepy, then you can come on to bed.There's your Monk movie on, so I'm going to go to bed or I will pass out on my feet. Sorry. You know I am old and have been through a lot these past 2 months. Hope you'll forgive me. Good night all. Sleep well. See you in the morning.  That's OK , Granny. I think Ill just watch this Monk guy, so I can see what I have been missing. I will be quite and I will see you early for Elaine's tea and Coffee. That would be great to go by the cemetery in the morning. That way I can find out the name of it. Hug, Hug....Good night, Granny! Monk was really good. Don't know why I have never seen that before. I'm so sleepy, I better get my PJs on and go sneak in the bed. Granny is already asleep. I heard her snoring really so lightly. Shes so nice, and so pretty. I love her apartment! Maybe some of the girls can come with me next year to visit again. I will hate to leave in the morning... tip toeing in the room...Crash, trip, crash, bang... Granny, its just me, don't hit me with that bat!!!! I didn't mean to scare you. I tripped over Billy Bob! He must have gotten out of the bathroom and he was laying beside your bed! I am sooooooo sorry I woke you! Ill put Billy up and get to bed without anymore noise! Sorry! The next morning I received another text from Isabella... Betty, Carla, JC, and Pam, so very glad we could all get together for a nice long lunch. Too bad my husband Dan couldn't join us but he couldn't get the time off of work. Isn't the food wonderful! My carnitas was perfect, moist and tender. And everyone sure enjoyed the show Billy Bob and the chick put on at the fountain. We will definitely have to do this again! Maybe Sheryl and Granny can join us next time as well. The time passed much too quickly and Betty was off on her journey again. So glad you made it to Granny's safely. Give her a hug from me! Betty and I are going to the cemetery this morning after breakfast. I have a friend and her son who are buried there also. Her son died at 38 and she lost another son in San Diego many years ago with cancer. She lived well into her 90s and was sad that she outlived her husband and sons. Billy Bob did very well overnight. He even slept through my 2 trips to the bathroom. Little yellow chick was snuggled up with him snoozing away. At my last trip in there, they had not made a mess yet. Like Betty said, he probably sensed that I might BBQ him if he acted up. I don't know yet what time Betty plans on leaving for her next visit. If she is still around at 9:30 we will go to the Center for the exercise class. After all that sitting and driving, I'm sure she could use some exercise, and I know I need to get started back at it. I'm sure there are some things I can't do yet, but I'll do what I can. I'm going to get things ready in the kitchen to make pumpkin pancakes for Betty and me as soon as she gets up. I hope she doesn't sleep too late. I'm getting hungry. Good morning Granny, yawn...stretch... I slept so good! The best in years and the latest in some time! You must tell me what kind of mattress you have. It is great. What is that wonderful smell? Smells like pumpkin pancakes. Yummmmmm, my favorite!! Granny, let me get dressed and take Billy Bob out then I will sit down and have breakfast with you. What's that? Yes, I need to exercise this morning! I'd be more than happy to go to the reck with you. Do they have a swim arobic class I could get in this morning? I think Billy Bob is crossing his hooves....I better stop talking and take him out ...  Burrrrr, it was cold out there! Billy Bob ran and jumped and had a ball out there in that cool weather. He even met a new friend. There was a bull frog outside on the sidewalk hollering for rain. Yum, this looks so good. You made these pancakes way better than my hubby does. He adds chocolate chips and that's too many calories. You did good, Granny. I think I will even have a cup of Elaine's tea that you got me this morning. I forgot to tell you that Monk was really good last night. He solved the mystery of a ring that disappeared and was found on a lady who was in a robbery. She told him she got it at a garage sale, but he wasn't buying that! Here, I will do the dishes while you get ready and then we will head off to the center.... So glad you slept well. My mattress is an extra firm, and I love it, but it is about 15 years old, so I don't know how much longer it will last. When I heard you stirring I started the pancakes. Did you like them with the banana sliced on top and about half an ounce of English walnuts sprinkled on? I use the sugar free syrup, but don't tell some of the ladies who don't approve of anything but the real thing. I also keep the regular syrup too, for the little ones when they come for breakfast. I'm glad you want to go exercise. The Center doesn't have a pool, so no water aerobics. They have a big exercise class that has a very good teacher. I used to go to the Y for the pool, but they changed teachers and I couldn't handle the one they gave us. She was always trying to act so cutesy and bawling out people in class in front of the other people. I couldn't handle that. I left before she had a chance to chew me out. Now I go to the gym and to the Center. Kinda wish I had the water now for my hip's sake, but I'll do OK without it.  I thought you would enjoy visiting with Monk. I sure do.After we exercise I need to go to the Drug Store right down the street from the Center and pick up a prescription. They are both on 76th St. N. so we can go to the cemetery from there. You can get out and check out the tombstones, but I'm not walking well on uneven ground yet. That is why I didn't go to the grave site yesterday. Better go get ready.  Oh, forgot to say, I don't think Billy Bob made a mess did he? There wasn't one in there the last time I was in the bathroom. Did you help little yellow chick back into the tub? Good Morning, Its me, Sheryl...had to call you! I must say, I am so surprised that a nice big BBQ wasn't served up for dinner last night. Granny, that surgery must have done a mind replacement for you as well as hip replacement. Billie and I talked about it at lunch and Billie has her cleaver ready if Billy Bob gets within arms' reach. Betty, you may want to rethink coming back here. Just find a nice lake along the way, where there are other water fowl, and set the yellow chick "free". They are so self-reliant, even at that young age. Although, by the end of the week, he'll be triple in size. Can't hide him in your pocket anymore. Oh My!! I didn't know Billie was after Billy Bob also. He was very well behaved while he was here so far. Of course we are leaving him alone while we go to the Center and to the cemetery, so it may be a different story when we return. I hope he stays nice, because I would hate for all my neighbors to see me use the cleaver on him, and I'm not going to do it inside my apartment. Betty, I see you are ready for the Center, so let's head out.  That was some workout at the center, Granny! I had a hard time keeping up with you. Your so limber even after surgery. I sure worked up a sweat. Thanks for letting me tag along with you. Lets go to the cemetery and the drug store and then I will have to get back on the road as much as I hate to.  Well, I left Granny's house shortly after coming in from the grave hunting. We stopped by the drug store and got her prescriptions and some apples at a fruit stand. Billy Bob and yellow chick are asleep on the passenger seat and y'all will never guess....I was about thirty minutes from Granny's when I heard this very deep rip-it ...seems I have another stow away....remember the Bull frog friend of Billy Bobs he meet outside...well, he's in my car. I don't know where but he has been hollowing for rain for over an hour. He's driving me nuts. Now it's a blond, a goat, a yellow chick, and a noisy big green bull frog in a two seater Miata zooming towards Tammy's house. I hope I get there before I go crazy.... Zoom , zoom, zoom! Betty, you forgot to mention that today turned out to be pizza day at the Center, so we stayed and had lunch. They begin serving at 11. How did you like the speech our Mayor made? He seems very knowledgeable. I think I'll vote for him. When do you think you will arrive at Tammy's? I'm glad the bull frog hitched a ride with you. I swear, I didn't put him in the car, but I'm glad to be rid of him. His croaking all night was keeping me awake. It's lonely around here with Betty gone. My apartment isn't any the worse for wear with Billy Bob and yellow chick here. I'm glad they behaved. It's been a long ride today to Texas. I had to stop three times so the animals can potty and I could stretch my legs. The hubby called me a few times to see if I was awake and ask how I was. When I told him about my passengers, he just laughed at me. I should be at Tammy's house sometime around six pm. The wind has really taken a toll on my little car and the tumble weeds have come across the windshield at me a few times. Scared Billy Bob so bad he yelled for an hour, woke up the bull frog who started hollowing for rain and then the yellow chick started cheering. You would have thought I had the radio on some rap channel... Well, I better get on down the road. Can't dance but I will turn up the music for all to hear and drown out the critters...  Well, I'm in Tammy's town, but shes not answering her cell phone and I don't have her address. I really don't know what to do. I may call Sheryl and see if anyone at Nutrimirror have seen her. Ill pull over in this Walmart parking lot towards the street and maybe shut my eyes for a few minutes since the animals are asleep...I'm so slezzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz Knock.....knock...tapp...hay lady! Yawn....as I rolled down my window just a crack I see two officers standing beside my car. They want to know if I am OK  Did someone put you in that small car with ....a Goat, a chick, and what's that....a bullfrog? Do you need medical help? No, no officers! I'm traveling and stopped to get some rest. The ads on TV say trucks and motor homes can stay free in any Walmart parking lot and I was so tired. These are my animals! Well, sort of! I am waiting for my friend, Tammy to get off work and call me so I can get her address. Perhaps you can help me? I really don't know her name, but she has a daughter, Tally and Tammy rides a Harley motorcycle.  Oh, you know whom I'm speaking of....you can lead me there? Cool!! Yes,, I will follow you as soon as I take my goat to the potty here on the other side of Walmart in the grass.  OK, we're ready. ..... Thank you officers, I can take it from here at her driveway. Since Tammy has that big front porch, I'll just sit here in this rocker and wait. Thank you both again. Yes, I will keep the goat tied! Man, oh man, Billy Bob! That was something! I was surprises those officers knew right off the back you I described and took us here to Tammy's house. Where could she be? Hope she's home before it gets too cold or we may be sleeping in the car .... Good morning peeps. I thought I would check in and see how everyone is and I guess I will take the dance! But first I will tell y'all where I am.. Tammy never did come home so I left her a note on the door about eight. I couldn't take the cold any longer and Bly Bob , the yellow chick, and the bull frog were starting to fight. Feed was running out and I was starving! I got everyone back in the car and found a hotel, feed everyone and went to bed. So that's where I am right now using the hotel Internet and having breakfast in my room. I may swing by Tammy's house before I leave town and see if she came home.... Well, I'm on the road again! Tammy wasn't home when I stopped there after I left the hotel so I'm heading to Elaine's. I will properly spend the night there and be home sometime tomorrow just in time to have dinner with the hubby. I sure miss him after being on the road all week! A week from tomorrow is our 39th wedding anniversary and I will properly spend it with him all week end. Don't know what our plans are but will clue y'all in, of coarse. I need to pull over on the side of the road, Billy Bob is trying to eat the Bull frog and he's hopping from seat to seat, hollering, and this time not for rain!!! STOP that...right now! Your three are driving me to the ends of my last nerve! I'm leaving all of you at Elaine's house when I leave Tomorrow and when she puts on the tea and coffee Monday morning, she can return you to your pen. I don't have a clue about you other two! So BEHAVE! Burning off the road....zoom, zoom, zzzzzzzzoooom OMG... It's me, Elaine...I need to get that Amish girl in to clean the house....guess I will put on some of those things you put on your feet to clean the floor and 2 step around the house. Dang, Betty! I need a little more notice. Don't look in the oven. That's where I'll throw my dirty dishes if you get here and they aren't washed. I'll throw all my clutter down the basement steps. Emma, Emma, get in here and help me clean. Where is Millie? She should be able to help too, lazy girl!!  I am pulling up in Elain's drive now. Billy bob is so ready to get out....wait, let me stop the car....dang goat! Hello Elaine, so glad to meet you in person...hug, hug! Yes, you can help me. Here, you carry this. Plop. Ya, it's a big Bull frog!, here, take this too. Cheep, cheep , cheep...ouch. I'm sorry, did it bite you? Properly hungry.  Where do you want me to tie Billy? Can we put him in your back yard? Oh, your house is so nice and clean! How do you do it, work, take weekly IV and run a family? Plus take time to make our coffee and tea every morning?  Why yes, I'd love a cup of your spice tea right now. I missed it on my travels. Can I help? I will get a pan for the stove.  Crash, oh my....what do you have, some fancy new cook stove that washes dishes too? I want one! Where did you buy that? Where's that side door go? The basement you say.  I won't open it, sorry, I am being too noisy. I'm sorry! Lets just sit any talk a bit. It's been a long week and a longer day. I'm so tired and frankly, I'm ready to see my hubby and get Billy Bob back to his pen. Catch me up on everything I missed this week. Look, I took photos everywhere I went and have to show you. Isn't Granny beautiful, and how did you like the falls Sheryl took me too? Pretty, right? This is the girls and I having lunch in California and this is a photo of Billy Bob eating a lady's hat after he got loose. May I use your powder room, it's been a long drive? Yes, Down the hall to the right. Billy can stay in the pole barn, chick can swim in the neighbors pond as can that smelly old bullfrog. Hope you can find them both where you are ready to leave. Let's take your suitcase into this front room and get you all freshened up and the we can go out to eat and chat over dinner. "later the same night" That sure was a nice meal we had when we went to the Iron Bridge Inn. I can't believe you ate that whole 24 ounce prime rib! Where do you put it all? I enjoyed my petite loin as well. Did I tell you they are famous all over for their prime rib? No, we are not going to any cemeteries after dark! End of story!!! If you want to go on your own, go for it but leave me out. Those old cemeteries are creepy. Are you going to church with me in the morning? I thought I might visit a different one for a change. There is a new one in town that bought our old building when we built a new one. It's mostly young people so I'm sure we will fit right in. I am staying up to watch the Pens game while you run out to theat cemetery since you insist on going. Take my GPS. I've put in the address. The sleeper is all made up and ready for you. Here is a key in case I am actually asleep when you get back! Just be careful.  Finally, time to sit down and relax. A cup of tea sounds really good (for real). I have the house as clean as it's going to get (don't look too close) and all done to the food I can. Hope the meatloaf is pretty thawed out by morning. Betty, I'm glad you made it safely . That traveling certainly gave you an appetite. Cemeteries after dark. You are adventurous.   Knock, knock, let me in Elaine, it's freezing out here... Thanks, it sure did get cold, wow! Yes, I slept really well after I got up. It was about two this morning when I got back from the cemetery. That was a Hugh one, but I photographed until my battery died on my camera. The moon was just right and the people sleeping there were so peaceful...no pop ups at all. I saw some deer playing behind the graveyard but no kids. You should have went with me. I'm with you, I think getting out to go to church will be dangerous until this ice melts. We can watch the service in TV this morning. Do you have some Mud boots? I need to go feed Billy Bob and give his some hay. I put a blanket on him last night and used that old belt I found in the camper to tie it on him. I didn't see the chick nor hear the bullfrog at all. They must be somewhere in that cold pond? Breakfast sure smells good. I think I'll just have some of your good tea thou for now. My stomach doesn't feel so good. I think that 24 oz of meat I ate last night at dinner is not going to agree with me. I have no idea if I can even travel this morning. I'll have to wait and watch the news at noon to see what the weather is doing. I don't want to get stuck on the road between here and the stop sign. That was really nice of you to run me a warm bath tub of water. I think I will go take it , and get dressed, then we can sit down during breakfast and exchange signing our Balanced Days books. I can't wait for you to read what everyone wrote in my on this trip... I'll be be back in a little bit.  That was a nice big tub you have. I feel so much better. Here, let me help you with breakfast and then I'll put those Mud boots you loaned me and my coat, and go feed. I am so full! Elaine, your a good cook! You sure don't want to go with me to feed? OK, Billy Bob would love to see you... Crunch, crunch, crunch...this ice sure is hard to walk on and the wind is making it even harder to get to the pole barn...crunch, crunch...What? Billy Bob,? How in the world did you get in there? How am I going to explain how you got in that old truck in the pole barn? I sure hope you didn't eat the seats or poop in there!! Get out of there!! Here you eat and stay in this stall. I can't wait to get you back home so Tally can take care of you for a while.... Crunch, crunch, crunch...walking towards the neighbors pond...crunch! Oh no, oh no! You poor thing! Yellow chick is stuck in the middle of the pond surrounded by ice all around. At least she is in the water part, even if its cold. I read water fowl can stand the cold water. I guess she will have to stay and live here, since I have no idea when that ice is going to thaw...I'll miss you little yellow chick. That dang bull frog must be in there some where too. I better get back to Elaine's, it's really cold out here...crunch, crunch, crunch....  Ha, Elaine, you think that you can get Betty to part with her Miata?? She talks of that car like it's her baby. Just so you know, the peeping will eventually turn to "honking", but still, out in the country, that will blend in to all the sweet noises of country life. And, will stay at the neighbors', where the pond is. Betty, I want to know how you got along with Rick, ? He's a quiet one, you know. I am just dying to know more about him. In the journal room, he is seldom heard from, but when he comments, it's well worth reading. A very interesting man, no wonder Elaine was drawn to him, and he to her. Great People!!!! I can't believe Rick cleared the driveway. That's usually my job. He was just showin' off for you 'cause your young and purty. He's from southern Indiana so he was always partial to southern girls anyhow. Too bad you missed Tami...I've seen her wandering around in the journal room. Maybe she's shy of company. Be safe now and get back home to hubby! That was a nice church service we watched , Elaine. I don't get that channel. I'm Southern Baptist through and though and never have seen preaching like that, but it didn't matter. Worshiping God was all that mattered! Also, lunch was great. That big pot of Chicken and Dumplings....ahhh, ya didn't did ya? The roads are throwing and the sun is coming out so I properly need to get on the road soon. Billy Bob and I will be fine and your sweet Rick cleared a path with the tractor so I can get out. Lets sit a minute and do the E28 logging of our breakfast and lunch then you can help me load Billy Bob in the car. If we get going soon, I should make Minden, Louisiana by dinner to be with the hubby. Ready? Yes, I'd love one more cup of tea.... Nice of you to stop in Betty. Hope you can come back again or maybe I can come and stay in your guesthouse...course I don't care for the heat any more than the cold; especially if it is humid. Bye....Drive safe... I'm almost home peeps! I had the best trip and week spending time with Sheryl, Granny, Carla, Pam, Jim, Sue, JC, Tammy's yard, and Elaine! I wish I could have visited with more of you, but some were snowed in, some on vacation, some of you working, and some just didn't want Billy Bob at their homes. Lots of fun. Took lots of photos and will post soon on my blog and will let everyone know when it's posted. Billy Bob and I are about to stop and potty , get a drink and a power bar that Elaine gave us, and then zoom on down the road. Here I come honey, back to you......zoom, zoom, zoom.....