UFC 281 - Wait 5 minutes

The following is a LONG OVERDUE story I was to have written. See, I "issued" the challenge back in April, but never posted my story. That's because I had started it, then was distracted and proceeded to forget about it. I had tried several times to go back and finish it, because I knew I could not give anymore challenges until this one was complete. However, for some odd reason the words would not arrive... until this morning.

The challenge (<--link to the other stories.) I set was a simple one:

Write a piece (in any form you wish & any length) that includes at least TWO of the following weather terms... Snow, blizzard, tornado, sleet, hail, rain, hurricane, wind, thunder, thunderstorm, lightening, and sunshine.

Below is what I had envisioned when I started this all those months ago....

Before I get to the story, let me say this: Though this might read as being from actual life, because I'm writing in the “first person” (also, including a few recognizable “names” & circumstances)... Rest assured, this IS a piece of fiction. With that said, I hope & pray that life never imitates art! ;)

Wait 5 minutes

© 2011 Becky aka Lady Harley ©

If you don't like the weather, stick around 5 minutes and it will change… at least that is the saying here in Ohio. Today was no exception to that rule. 

Last I heard there might be a small chance of a pop up shower, but it was only 10%.  No one had a clue as to what was about to unfold.

When I woke up, I opened all the windows in the house, turn on the radio, and went about my daily chores.  I was happy for I knew there was not much to do and I would be able to sit outside, in the beautiful sunshine, to continue to on my novel, which I have been neglecting and avoiding.

I had no idea what this day actually had in store for me.

Melodies rang through the speakers as I hummed along.  I was actually enjoying the tedious task of washing dishes, because I was able to look out the window and watch my two dogs romp around in the backyard.  It was nice having a yard big enough for them to run around and chase each other or lay down under a tree, without worry of getting hit by traffic.

Taking a deep breath in an I could smell lilacs and wondered which neighbor had ones that were blooming so late in the year. I closed my eyes and sighed at the remembrance of the lilac trees on the farm where I grew up.

Sunny yelped, bringing me back to present day.  With a quick glance up I realized she and Coleman were just playing.  I giggled how Coleman could always gets Sunny to chase him.  Thinking they should not have all the fun I put down the dish, picked up a towel to dry my hands, and started toward the door to join them.  However, I was stopped in my tracks by the emergency tone blaring from the radio.

My ears perked up as I heard the words Tornado Watch, followed by my county name.  Saying to myself, "That is odd.  I did not think we were to have any storms and it's late October, has to be a mistake.  Guess I better turn on The Weather Channel."

As I picked up the remote I heard rumbles of thunder.  "Wow, that is really rolling in fast."

Next thing I knew both dogs were at the back door barking to get in. I dropped the remote before I could even turn the TV on. Went to let Coleman & Sunny in and was amazed at how blue the sky was.

I opened the door and both dogs shot past me & went straight for the bedroom. Mumbling to myself, "Hmmm, this is not a good sign. I best get my shoes on."

Before I put on my shoes, I decided to investigate where the dogs went to. Once again I had to giggle at them, because they were both hiding under the computer desk and were shaking. That's odd, usually Coleman is barking at the storms & only Sunny is the one to hide.

Taking note and recalling the emergency tone I just heard, I scrambled to find & put on my sneakers.

Walking passed the kitchen window I noticed the sun was still shining and thought either the tone was a false alarm, or something big was about to happen. Not knowing how true that thought would become.

Remembering how nervous Coleman & Sunny were acting, I gathered up a few supplies, just in case we had to high tail it to the basement. Since I still had some supplies from Spring still down there, I knew I did not have to grab but just the jug of water in the fridge, a jacket and the dog leashes. If it really does get bad, there would be no other way to get them to the basement without a little help.

Moving from room to room, I kept glancing out the window to see if I could view what might have spooked the dogs, who were still cowering under the desk. It was not until I reached the bathroom that I saw an ominous dark cloud. I was frozen captivation at the beauty of it's different shades of colors, until I saw a flash. "What was that?" I said aloud. A moment of clarity crossed my mind, it was a transformer blowing. The storm was upon us.

Knowing time was of the essence, I rushed to put the leashes on the dogs and had to nearly drag them both down to the basement. Wrapping each of their lines around different poles, but keeping the brakes loose so they could still walk around. Ran back upstairs to grab my laptop, cell phone & a flashlight.

I had forgot the radio was still on until the static blaring through the speakers. Reaching for the remote, I turned off the static and flipped the TV on. Being an avid viewer of The Weather Channel, it was already tuned to the right station. Then I saw on the red box on the TV scrolling the words: TORNADO WARNING for the following counties... & then the TV signal was lost.

At which point I dropped the remote, without turning off the tv or anything else and bolted down the basement.

Looking around for the safest place I noticed out of the corner of my eye, my 3/4 motorcycle helmet, we had put in the basement for winter storage a few days before. (It was the type that covers your head, ears & has a shield.) Oddly, a story I saw a year or so ago on The Weather Channel, about a little boy surviving a tornado by wearing his bicycle helmet, crossed my thoughts.

I grabbed the helmet, placed it on my head, without strapping it on, or pulling the shade down. I proceeded to sit on the floor with the wall to my back. Huddle around the dogs petting them to reassure them it we would be safe. Sunny curled up in my lap & Coleman began trying to lick my face, until a loud crack of thunder scared him. Instead of barking like he usually does, he tried to get between me & the wall.

As I was pulling him down & trying to hug him, the sound of a jet flew over head. First I thought, “Strange, why would a jet be flying in this weather?” Then I heard loud thumps as if someone was trying to kick in the door, followed by breaking glass. I knew then it was not a jet I was hearing, but a tornado.

My ears popped & even though the noise of the fierce wind was deafening, I could hear both dogs whining. Trying to comfort them was tough because I was flinching with the sounds of what probably was large hail hitting my house.

With each thud Sunny seemed to try to scurry further down in my lap until she was buried under my legs, making it very hard to hold keep Coleman from crawling over top my back.

After what seemed like an hour, but only a mere couple minutes, all the noise dissipated and was replaced with the chirping of birds.

Somehow Coleman had climbed over my back and had me hunched over. It took a few moments to pull him by the leash off of me so I could stand and let Sunny free from my legs. Once I stood and stretched, I had to laugh at the two of them wagging their tales at me.

Holding my hand up to signal them to wait, I proceeded to look around to see if there was any damage to the floor above me. Letting out a quiet sigh of relief, I climbed the steps slowly because I was scared of what might be on the other side of the door or rather what may not be there!

To my relief the door opened easily and at first glance it appeared we had escaped without any harm to our house. I continued out our back door to see if all was okay enough for me to bring the dogs up. A millisecond later something hurled out of the sky, hit my head, and knocked me to the ground.

Thankfully, I had not removed my helmet. Not taking time to see what just hit me, I stood quickly and rushed back into the house and to the safety of the basement, as a few more things pinged the roof.

I sat down against the same wall and began to curse myself for not remembering to wait long enough for the debris from the tornado to fall to it's final resting spot.

Even though I heard sirens whaling past my house signaling the end of the storm, I could not move away from the wall. As I rocked back and forth nervously, the dogs did not leave my side for what seemed like hours.

Only the ringing of my cell phone snapped me out of the seemingly trance I was in. It was my mom to check to make sure I was okay. Trying to hide my frazzled nerves, I assured her all was fine. When asked if we had any damage, I replied I didn't think so, but hadn't had a chance to really get to see yet.

I ended the call once I heard my husband calling out for me & the dogs. Yelling, “We're down here.” He opened the door and came down to check on us. I ran into his arms still shivering with fear.

“Are you ok?”

“Just a little shaken... but not stirred.” I joked.

He grimaced at my bad pun. “Why do you have your helmet on?”

“To protect my head, and glad I did too. Something hit me when I was outside.”

“You were out in this mess.”

“No, after the storm passed I went to go survey the damage, but only made it out the door a few steps when something hit me. Realizing stuff must still be falling from the sky, I rushed back down here. It was that, not the storm that really scared me.”

“Then that explains the dent in the hunk of metal up on the deck.

I reached up to remove the helmet only to find a huge divot on the crown of the helmet and realized how lucky I was.

By now the dogs were jumping up and down waiting for their turn of attention. My husband reached down and released them from their leashes. The three of them started climbed the steps while I stood in place. Looking back at me my husband realized I must have been in shock, because he grabbed my hand and guided me up the stairs.

Moving about the house, he said, “We actually lucked out, the tornado didn't knock any of our trees down, or damage our roof. We have a couple broken windows, probably from debris or hail. Can't say that about any of our neighbors.”

“How bad is it?”

“Bad. I'd say it was at least an EF3 or EF4 tornado.”

We proceeded to step outside and I was amazed at how our house was barely marred, yet each neighbor on either side of had nothing left. Had it been a city neighborhood, we would not have fared as well, because debris was everywhere.

Shaking my head, I muttered, "This was, without a doubt an EF5. I pray no one was seriously injured or worse!"

As I was walking around looking at the destruction, my husband held something up that looked like something from a car and said, “This must have been what hit you. Are you sure you're okay?”

Still holding the helmet in my hands, I nodded and said, “We can thank The Weather Channel for that!”

He looked at me and before he could ask, I reminded him of the story about the kid who was in a tornado and saved by a bicycle helmet.

The dogs started wandered off in the yard sniffing all the new smells as we sauntered over to check on our neighbors. All were either not home or down in their basements and were unharmed.

We all gathered back on our deck and started to recounted our each of our experiences. Knowing this will not be a day any of us would forget.

Listening to the radio, confirmed my suspicion it was an EF5. They called it historic, because no lives were lost.

Moments later I felt a cold chill. Followed by what I thought was rain drops, turned out to be snow flakes falling.

Prompting me to say: “Figures. Don't like the weather............”

© 2011 Becky aka Lady Harley ©

UFC 282 - The Alphabet Paragraph

Here's another installment of the United Friends Challenge (UFC) ... but before I get to that, I have to mention that I'll be posting, later, a story that I was supposed to do over a week ago, but forgot to finish it. (Supposed to, because it was MY challenge.)

So, when you see UFC 281 & think I numbered it wrong... it is not.

Anyway, onto this week's challenge:

How well do you know your abc's?
Write a paragraph or poem using only 26 words.
The first word in your piece must begin with "a" the second with "b", and so forth.

To see other entries, click HERE.
With mine, I capitalized the 1st of each word on purpose. ;)

Albeit, Bygone Customs Don't Escape From Grandeur, However Informal, Justifies Keeping Like Most Notable Of Predecessors. Quaintly Remember Steep Traditions Using Various Wonderment, Xeroxing Yesteryear's Zaniness!!!!

UFC #274 - Honoring 28

It has been a LONG time, I know! Not just for blogging in general... but creative writing in general. So, I decided best way to try to get back on that horse is to start off small & with a challenge, where I would HAVE to write!

For those who don't recall (or are new to this) UFC stands for United Friends Challenge. It's a group consisting of writers of all types. Poets & story tellers a like. Once a week someone puts up a challenge for all the other members to try their best at. We don't have to accept all of them, just the ones that inspire / motivates us to write. However, when you set one, you are then required to produce a piece of writing based on what you requested of the other authors.

With that said... this week, for the 1st time in over a year... I proposed the following challenge:

When you think of the number 28, what comes to mind? What does it look like? Something happen on that day? Tell us.
HOWEVER, do it in ONLY 28 lines / sentences.

It can be in any style you want.
So rhyme it if you're a poet.
Make it a narrative if you want.

Just make sure it's only 28 lines for a poem or 28 sentences for a narrative.

For other entries, check out UFC here! :)

Here is my submission...

(Preface, I am only putting this in "bullet" form for one to see it is ONLY 28 lines.) ;)

Honoring 28

1. Twenty Eight, oh what a beautiful number you are!
2. Sometimes, when written or produced with certain fonts you are a number full of curves.
3. You could even be mistaken for the letters QB.
4. The number 8 could even be turned into a heart on top.
5. An ice skater gliding your number out makes you into a work of art.
6. Speaking the words twenty eight is just as captivating.
7. In the month of February you are given room to breathe for 3 years, because your successor does not even want to show up. ;)
8. You have adorned the cars of many great Nascar drivers, including the late Davey Allison and one of my all time favorites, now broadcaster of the sport, Dale Jarrett.
9. Your fame continues with, Sandra Bullock in the movie 28 Days.
10. Laying down the 8, you are a part of "Buzz Lightyear's" favorite saying: "To Infinity...."
11. Thankfully infinity is not how long this is epitaph is going to last ;)
12. When it comes to weather, you could be considered cold in the United States.
13. However, in most countries, you are followed by the letter C, and are quite warm! ;)
14. Twenty eight inches is more than 2 feet.
15. That much snow, could possibly bring a city to a halt.
16. Where as 28 inches of rain could be devastating if all at once.
17. However, spread over time, you can make flowers grow and create a beautiful world.
18. While researching you history, I found the interesting fact that 28 is the lowest uniform number in Major League baseball that has not yet been retired!
19. In the game of dominoes, you are considered a standard set.
20. The country India even has a card game simply called Twenty Eight.
21. You numbers are far apart on a computer keyboard.
22. On the other hand, opposites attract & that is what you are on a clock!
23. You are considered two minutes before the end of a half hour.
24. When your two numbers are added together you make the small number 10.
25. Furthermore, in mathematics, you are a PERFECT number!
26. Physics recognizes your as magic!!
27. To me you are grace & beauty!!!!
28. As much as I would like to continue, that my friends is the end of the 28 line challenge.

NaNoWriMo update... Nov 21st

Uh... if you hadn't been able to figure it out, my writing has gone by the wayside the past few weeks. It's not that I'm in a writer's block... it's just I don't have the energy? to write. (Energy is NOT the correct word.)

It has nothing to do with the pressure of a deadline either... I have plenty of ideas for it... it's just I'm not at a place where I can write & write & write.

So, I've retreated to Facebook... & other things to get my mind off of it. But alas that proved to be a little detrimental... in the fact, I had forgot about NaNoWriMo for some time. & Now I know there's no way I'd make the deadline without pushing myself way beyond the limit... & again, I just don't have the stamina / energy to do it.

I'm not giving up on the book... I'm actually looking forward to finishing it. I'm just not going to push it to be 50,000 words. Because there are so many of you involved in it... I will get it finished! I may just post it as chapters here. or something. We'll see.

Ok, that's all for now. I have lots of other things on my mind that I need to attend to. Take care & HUGS to you all!

Thanks for cheering me on... sorry to let you down. NEXT YEAR, I'll do it!!! (Who knows I may still be able to make a little more effort to it this year... but I'm not going to push it!)

~~TOODLES~~

Good news on the SS Disability .... sort of... (Chiari related)

Spoke with the attorney today & he said we FINALLY have a hearing date scheduled for 1-21-2010.

1st... I can't believe it's going to be 2010 in just about 7 weeks... WHAT HAPPENED to 2009??

2nd.. The attorney said they're going to have a neurologist at the hearing. Which will all be done via video conferencing.

He also said that if all goes well & I'm approved, it will be 30 to 60 days before I get the 1st check... which should be the retroactive money. (Over 3 years worth!!!)

So, once we have that accomplished, I'll be scheduling the surgery soon as I can.... However, BEFORE I can even think about that... I have to get that MRI Cine Flow study done... That won't happen until Hubby's new insurance kicks in late this month....

UNLESS a friend, & advocate for Chiarians & a Chiarian herself, finds out if a certain radiologist will do the MRI for FREE... yes... I said  FREE!!!! Only thing is... since I haven't heard from her... I'm thinking that the radiologist can't get privileges down in Columbus. ... I'm about to tell her to tell the guy that if he can do it... I'll get to New York!

Just hope if I do that... they don't mind I'm not going to the doctors in New York.

Who knows, maybe the doctor will tell me I don't need surgery after all & just will need to take some medicine to relieve the pressure. We'll see.

Anyway... that's the update on that.
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A quick NaNoWriMo update (in case you didn't see my quick note)... It's on hold for me right now. I have completely lost my muse... & the mood of creative writing. I think it's from the lack of sleep I've gotten this week... SOOOOO hopefully things will improve over the weekend.

Stay tuned for more...
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*HUGS* & ~~Toodles~~

Literary abandonment is what it's called... (NaNoWriMo update)

It's a good thing that this book does not need to make sense... because last night after nearly 30 hours of not writing anything toward it I picked up my pen and paper (because my computer was off... as it should be at 3:30 AM!!) and just started to write about each of the characters.

What prompted that was a little 'pep talk' letter that was sent out to the NaNoWriMo participants last evening.

It said something about when you've come to a road block start describing the characters. Their clothes, their mannerisms... anything... just do it in great wordy detail! JUST WRITE!!!

So, that's what I was doing. I believe I only wrote for about 1/2 hour maybe longer. Didn't look at the time when I finally put down my paper & pen... I barely remember laying down.

However, it felt good to have written when I didn't write AT ALL on Friday.

I just finished counting all them words... & they're good enough to add to the book. ... The count was 724. (I'm now up to a total of 10,886 words with 39,114 to go!) I guess I tend to write faster with a pen than to type. LOL.

If I could, probably would write with my pen more often. Only thing is... I would need to transfer it all to the computer anyway. So, I stick with the typing. LOL!!!

Ok... I have to get back at it before the muse leaves me again. I'm playing catch up mode again. By the end of tonight I should be over 13 grand... again, key word being.... SHOULD!

However... I'm more looking at the goal at the end of tomorrow... FIFTEEN THOUSAND words... So, hopefully be end of tomorrow I'll be back on track. (Not going to push myself... just going to write and write and write.... )

~Toodles~

This may be the silliest thing I've ever written (NaNoWriMo update)

I thought Stella the Stiletto was the goofiest thing I would ever write. Well, this novel I'm writing for the NaNoWriMo challenge has gone way beyond silliness!! In my mind, I think so! ;o)

At least it really doesn't matter if the book is really worthy for the masses to read. It's the exercise of writing is what counts.

In doing so, I have found I can write nearly 1500 words in just over an hour, if I really just sat down and just let mind (and fingers) have at it. I can only imagine at this point what I really could punch out if I spent a good eight hours working on just writing for my book. Meaning no blogs... no Facebook updates... no tweets on Twitter... just creative writing.

Anyway, I'm taking a little break from the book to let you know that (in case you didn't see in my quick notes) I've crossed that TEN GRAND mark! WOO HOO!!! And there's still a few hour left in the day! :o)

Also, to inform you there is now a widget on my front page with my word count. It's the 1st little box in the left column. (Or you can just refer back to this blog and the picture at the top.)

Well, that's all for this update. Talk to ya all soon! ~Toodles~

Off to a good start - NaNoWriMo update

After I gathered my Nestle Toll House chocolate chips and a glass a milk I started the challenge.

I stopped only once in the past 3 hours, and it has paid off. I have already typed over 2600 words. To meet the goal of 50,000 words in 30 days you need to average about 1667 words a day. My personal goal is 1800 to 2000.

Which I have succeeded for Day 1! And to think... there's still 21 more hours left in the day! *grins!*

In the next day or so, I hope to be able to have a little widget on my front page to show you my tally, so I don't have to bug you all with a blog each time. (And so I don't use up my words! Like as if that would happen! LOL!)

Anyway... Just wanted to let you all know how it's going. Stay tuned for more updates!

~Toodles!~ :)

Cast of characters for NaNoWriMo 2009 (updated)

Well my characters are almost all accounted for... now I just need to start coming up with some destinations for when all have climbed aboard.

btw... here are those who have "signed up"... so far... There are just a few whom I'm waiting for confirmation to use their screen name. So they're not on the list just yet.

Maegan; Dio; KittyChile; Spooked Dreamscape (a dragon, in case you didn't know!); Caffienated Jo (may just call her Caffi Jo!); Cali the Quill & Ink; Passion Wolf; Stilly Bee; Nomie Panda & her imaginary friend Jessifer; MystyDragons & her Pixies; & the Warrior Princess (you all know her as HeartsofParis)... & Now we have Gina Bean (my sister!) :)

I have some ideas for the destinations... country wise that is (ie: Africa) but will need some town / village / city names. Any ideas??

Please feel free to add your ideas below... if I use it, I'll be sure to give you (your screen name that is.) in my "credits".

Thanks to all who have stepped forward & agreed to lend their screen name in this project of mine! It's been a huge help & relief to know I should not have a problem meeting the 50,000 (or more) words in 30 days challenge!! :o)
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Guess I should have read my other messages before I started to type this... seems that KittyChile has given me a list of town names. HOWEVER... don't let the stop YOU from giving some suggestions.

Just remember can't be any thing that would be in someone else's novel. (Ie: Hogwarts)

If you think of something... let me know what country it maybe in.

Thanks again all!!! :)

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Due to copyright... I had to change the name of our dear friend Dory Panda. She will be known as Nomie Panda in the story. (Mutually agreed upon between the two of us.)

YOUR name on my list.... (updated 10-31.. TWICE!) ;)

Re-posting this from a quick note... in hopes to get ya all to look at it... (sorry for the duplication.)

In case you've missed my other blogs / notes... I finally have an idea for my novel for the NaNoWriMo... but I need some character names... & below is the list I'm looking at.

Please keep in mind I will NOT be using any of your real life details (except maybe the country you live in as a destination stop)... This will be strictly a work of fiction. If you want more information, please send me a PM. Thanks :)

(You think 12 characters is too many???) I may not need all of these... but these are the ones I think I can really get a good story lines with!! :o)

Maegan - ON BOARD ... might be the Train Engineer??

Dio & Flagon - ON BOARD - (already ok'd via the THIS BLOG.) <~~~ Go there in case you want more info.

KittyChile - ON BOARD... & will be defending the Pixies!! ;o)

Spooked Dreamscape (can't have Kitty without her Spooked! *grins*) ??????

Caffienated Jo - ON BOARD!!!

Cali the Quill & Ink - ON BOARD!!! (She knows who she is! & this one is OK'd!!)

Passion Wolf - just received a text confirmation... she's ON BOARD!! :o)

Stilly Bee - ON BOARD! - buzz buzzz

Buggal the Lady Bug - I have a great idea for Buggal... hope she will join us!!! ;o)

Dory Panda - ON BOARD - & will bring along some friends too, maybe! :)

Emma Monkey ?????

MystyDragons & her Pixies - ON BOARD - & there will be NO eating of the pixies!!! :o)

Warrior Princess (you all know her as HeartsofParis) - ON BOARD! Thank you! :)

Actually make that at baker's dozen of characters... because I'll need my name, Lady Harley, in it too, as the conductor of the train!!! ;o)

Now... it's hurry up & wait until 12:01a Nov 1st!!! LOL

(btw... You can either reply below OR send me a PM to ok or veto your user id.)

Oh wow... this is coming together quite nicely!!! *BIG grins!*

NaNoWriMo update... (just a quick note) ;)

Ok, in just less than 2 hours I have had the inspiration hit me, like a ton of bricks, for my novel this year...

I, now, think I'll have NO PROBLEM whatsoever meeting this challenge!

The ideas are just pouring out of my little brain... (I mean the brain that's too big for my head! LOL... yes that's a reference to my Chiari Malformation.) ;o)

Anyway... stay tuned... more updates to follow...

Let the COUNTDOWN begin!!!

So much for that idea!

Yes, I'm talking about NaNoWriMo again...

I thought I had a great idea of what to do... but then I wanted to be sure that I could do a piece of Non-Fiction / a sort of auto-biography...

Then I read this:
Write a novel. We define a novel as a lengthy work of fiction. If you consider the book you're writing a novel, we consider it a novel too!

Well, that idea is thrown out the window & back to square 1...

So, again I ask... Anyone have any ideas for me???

Wait... STOP THE TRAIN!!! Something just hit my train of thought here...

But I guess I'll need all of you to give your ok on this... Well, a few of you at least...

If I were to write something using your user id... would you mind? (Of course I'd give you credit & a thank you in the book.)

It would be one of them type of stories where I would use the names and / or pictures to base the character upon. Meaning, I would NOT use any of your real life details!!! ;o)

For example: KittyChile would be a kitten... then there's Passion Wolf, she'd be... a wolf. (Big stretch there.) and etc... LOL.

Ok... with that said... I best get to thinking of a plot for these characters.

In the meantime... keep an eye on this blog for updates of how it's going.

~~ TOODLES ~~

FOUR days until NaNoWriMo starts

Writers on your mark... only FOUR days away from the start of the National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo)!

In case you don't know, that's the challenge to write a 50,000+ word novel in 30 days. That averages out to over 1600 words per day; over 138 words per hour & 2.3 words per minute. Now that's doesn't sound so hard, does it???

It does if you don't have a plot idea in your head at this moment... I have NOT a single one!!!

But my main concern is I may have another episode of my backwards typing... Yeah, I know... the spelling / context of the words don't count, it's the quantity they're after.

Only thing is I hope that when I have my sister read & proof this one that it's not sooooo far off that she may not get the story. LOL.

Anyway... Get stocked up now on all the snacks & prepare to spend a few late nights typing up a storm.

Just remember, if you're going to do this challenge to take many breaks so as not to get stiff! (Mainly saying this for myself.) ;o)

On you marks... Get set.... WAIT... it's not November 1st yet!!! *giggles*

(Yes that's my "badge" from last year. And to think, I started 11 days late last year!!)
(Title corrected... I forgot there are 31 days in Oct! LOL!)

UFC - #166 - Gina Bean's 1st day of school

Before I begin with today's challenge... I have to take care of a little business....
Today is my sister, Gina's birthday... so...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, GINA!!!
LOVE YA, SIS!!!

(You'll see why, in a moment, I did that with my story blog. *winks*)
Now... onto the United Friends Challenge... And yep... I'm the one that set it today! :)

Ladyharley's Challenge

In your favorite type of format (story, poetry, haiku, etc), please compose a piece (of any length) using the character name: Gina Bean. (She would be the main character... doesn't have to be the only one... but can be if you'd like.)

 

Note:

Today is my sister's birthday. When I requested this challenge, I was going to ask her what she would want me to write about. (Since she's been my biggest supporter, so far, of my work.) Anyway, I changed my mind & came up with a different plan... As a "surprise" for her... My challenge is going to be in dedication to her... in a way. It's simple this time.

(In case you're wondering, Gina Bean was her nickname growing up.)

(Except for the nickname, all other names were changed for... you know!)

So, here's my story... Keep in mind this is fictional!
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED... COPYRIGHT 2009 ~ LADY HARLEY

Gina Bean's 1st day of school

"Long long time ago, in a land far far..."

"No, Mommy, I don't want a story, I'm not tired!"

The mom gently places the fairy tale book on her lap & leans over to her sweet child & softly speaks, "Now Gina Bean, you need to go to bed, tomorrow is a big day for you."

"But I don't want to go to school Mommy!" cried the little girl. "I want to stay home with you like we always does."

"That's like we always do, & see, you need to go to school so you can learn how to speak properly. Besides, you'll get to make new friends."

"But I don't want to make new friends. I want to stay here wiff you!"

The mother sits straight up in her chair and speaks firmly now. "I will continue your story, as long as you stop this whining. Otherwise you can just go to sleep. Either way, you will be going to school tomorrow, so there is not point in trying to argue with me about it."

"Mommy?"

"Yes dear?"

"Why?"

"Why, what, dear?"

"Why do I needs to go to school?"

"School is a place where you learn new and exciting things about life, and the world we live in."

"Can't you learn me all that I need to know?"

"The word would be teach, and no, darling, I cannot. See, tomorrow is a big day for me as well. I'll be learning something new too."

"Can I go wiff you?"

"No honey," she says trying to hide her giggle.
"Sweetie, it's a job, for big people. Your job is to learn, and that is why you are going to school tomorrow."

She looks at her daughter's confused and frightened face, then leans into her again & whispers; "Tell you what sweetie, give it one week and if you absolutely hate it, I will find a way for me to be your teacher."

A big smile comes across the little one's face. She thinks by the end of the week she will be with her mom forever!

"It's time for you to go to sleep now, Gina Bean."

"Will you read me the story, Mommy?"

"Only if you promise to close your eyes as I read it."

She nods her head & closes her eyes as her mom opens the book and starts again. "Long long time ago, in a land far far away......"

A few minutes later Gina was fast asleep, and the exasperated mother quietly walks out of the room.

"You know, dear, you have to stop calling her Gina Bean," says her husband as she crawls into her own bed. "Did you know, she thinks that's her real name?"

"No, I didn't. I will have a talk with her tomorrow over breakfast," she replies as she yawns. "She sure wears me out. Please pray, dear, that she has a good day. I made a deal with her that if her week is awful I would find a way to be her teacher."

Shaking his head, "Oh you didn't?"

"I know, I almost gave the surprise away. I don't think she caught on though."

The next morning Gina wakes up to the smell of her favorite breakfast. She runs into the kitchen & gives her mom a big hug.

"What's that for sweetie?"

"I love you! Thank you for making Cocoa Wheat's."

"You're welcome. Now sit down and eat, I need to talk with you."

As Gina gobbles up her nice hot bowl of cereal, she looks at her mom with question.

"Honey, you do know that Gina Bean is just my nick name for you, right?"

"Yeah, I know. My name is Gina Bean."

"No, Sweetie, it's Regina Riley. Gina Bean is just what I call you."

"Oh, just like Daddy's name is Carl Riley and you are Mommy Riley?"

Her mom laughs, "Yes, your dad's name is Carl Riley, but my name is Crystal Riley."

She looks at her mom for a moment and then asks, "Then, Mommy, why do you call me Gina Bean?"

"Well, because before you were born your Daddy saw a picture of you when you were in my tummy and you were so tiny that Daddy said, "Look we're having a bean, instead of a little girl."

The both giggled. Crystal stood up to finish her duties in the kitchen. Then as Gina brings her emptied bowl to her and asks, "Mommy, do I have to go today?"

The mom bends down to her daughter & puts her hand under her chin, "Now, we went though this last night, remember?"

"I know, I was hoping I could talk you out of making me go."

Crystal laughs, ruffles her daughter's hair & points to Gina's room, "Go get your clothes on. Your outfit is laying on your bed."

As she is walking out of the room her dad passes her in the hall way and she looks up at him and says, "I think Mommy better tell her new boss she won't be there after this week." Before he could reply she dashed off to her room to change.

"Crystal," he says as he enters the kitchen. "Gina just said you have to tell your boss you won't be there after this week. You know she's up to something, don't you?"

"I know. I am going to make sure she knows that this deal is only valid if she gives it an honest try."

"Ok, I hope you know what you're doing!"

"I do." She grins at her husband. "You think she will be surprised?"

"I still think you should have told her that you were going to be her teacher."

Later on that morning, just before Crystal & Gina enter the classroom, she bends down & kisses her little girl and whispers, "Have a great day Gina Bean!"

"Will you go in with me, please, Mommy, please?"

"Ok." She grins, knowing that her daughter is about to get the best surprise.

As they walked in the 12 other children looked at the two of them. Gina had a big grip on her mom's hand and didn't want to let go until, one of the girls rushes up to her and give Crystal a big hug and says, "Hi Mrs. Riley, are you our teacher? Is she your daughter? Can she sit by me? Can I help you with your..."

Crystal puts her hand on the little girl's shoulder and says, "Slow down, Missy. One question at a time." She turns to Gina to see her eyes big as saucers & nods and turns back to Missy. "Yes I am your teacher. Yes, she is my daughter. Yes, she can sit by you. Will you show her to her seat, please?"

Little Missy takes Gina by the hand and walks her to the desk next to her own. As Gina sits in her seat, she watches her mom write the words: Mrs. Riley on the blackboard.

Crystal turns to the class and says, "Good Morning, Class. Welcome to your first day of school. My name is Mrs. Riley. Now you know who I am, who are you? One by one, stand up, please, tell me your name and what is your favorite food."

All the kids give their names one by one and then it's Gina's turn. Her mom watches intently and holds her breath as her little girl begins to tell her name.

"My name is Gina Bean." As some kids giggle, she corrects herself. "I mean my name is Regina Riley, you can call me Gina. Only my mommy and daddy can call me Gina Bean." She smiles and quickly takes her seat.

Letting her breath out slowly the teacher says, "Thank you Gina, but you forgot to tell us what you favorite food is."

"Oh, right! It's chocolate!" She proudly announces.

One of the boys next to her pipes up "that's not a food, that's candy."

"It is so! It's made from beans. Beans are food, so chocolate is food!"

"That's the stupidest thing I ever heard. Chocolate is not a bean. Just because your name is Gina Bean, doesn't mean everything comes from a bean!"

"Now kids. Don't argue!" Crystal raises her voice a little bit. "Tommy, chocolate is a food in it's own right. Yes, it starts off as a bean. When it's completely harvested, it becomes the delicious sweet we know as chocolate. It comes in many forms too: liquid, powder, and even a solid candy bar. Would you all like me to bring in some different types later?"

All thirteen children exclaimed "YEAH!!!"

After the day was over Gina waited for all the kids to leave before she went up to her mom. "This was the best day ever! Why did you not tell me you were going to be my teacher?"

"I wanted it to be a surprise dear."

She gives her mom a big hug and says, "Thanks, Mommy. "

They both giggle as Crystal returns the hug and says, "You're welcome, Gina Riley!"

Gina flashes her mom a big smile, "That's Gina Bean to you Mommy!"

"Only when we're not in class, ok?"

"Ok, can I call you Mommy in class?"

"Actually, you should call, Mrs. Riley in school."

Gina nods. Soon as they are out of the building, she looks up at her mom and loudly proclaims, "I love you Mommy!" Then in a softer voice she says, "See, we're out of school now!"

"That we are dear. I love you too Gina Bean!"

Click HERE for more submissions!!!

UFC - #155 - A day with Hubby - The instructions

Inspiration has hit with the latest UFC challenge...
Sunshineatmidnight's Challenge
Write an instruction manual (of any length) for a product or process.
The topic must be something that does not generally have a manual,
such as a #2 pencil or how to put on a sock.

(For other submissions click HERE.)

DISCLAIMER: I write this with lovingly wisdom & humor after being with my hubby for over 17 years!! (Wow has it been that long?)

Also, this is when our day meshes together. (Remember... my days & nights are all messed up at the moment!!) So, there can be some variables to the instructions depending on certain... (shall I say) events!

Furthermore, this is just a SMALL GLIMPSE... loosely represented!!

A day with Hubby - The instructions...
©LADYHARLEY 2009©

Mind you, I love my hubby to pieces... but there are times when I wish I had a manual to go by... So, maybe this will work. (Side note... This is not necessarily how it is for every Hubby, just mine, that I know of.)

1. The night before... ask Hubby if needs up at a set time. If no, go onto step #2.
If yes, keep the time in mind & when you hear the alarm beeping for over 5 minutes the next day & he's not moving around yet, holler up the steps: "Hey Dear?". Be prepared you may have to repeat yourself. When he answers, be ready for a cantankerous response... for you know he is probably still sleeping & really does not want to get up.

2. Remember, don't talk to him until after he's had his shower, is dressed and is down the steps. Even then, try to get it to the minimum AND only if it's necessary! Otherwise just a quick "I love you" will suffice.
(NEVER EVER SAY: "Good Morning" because then it will be greeted with hostility. Maybe a "mornin' " will be ok... but NEVER add the "GOOD" to it!!! Oh... & NEVER EVER SAY: "Have a good day"... that TOO would receive a grunt or grouchy reply!! (You might be able to get away with a: "TRY to have a good day.") It's best to say nothing or just "I love you & be careful" when he's walking out the door. (Making sure to say it without mumbling so he does not have to stop & say "What?" (if so, it won't be a nice "What?"... it would be a "Why are you delaying me?" type!!)

3a. If he's running late, because he ignored you and the alarms (yes, more than ONE alarm) offer to take the dogs out after he leaves! Again, make sure you're clear enough he can understand you. At this point you can go about your day until he returns. At which point you continue to step 9.

3b. If he has no where to go, just stay on the couch (or be sure not to be in his way) after he comes back in from taking the dogs out... & as he get something to eat for breakfast.

4. After he has retreated to the computer room, you go back into the kitchen open the top of the cereal box & close up the bag completely. Then, put it back in the cabinet where it belongs. (if you're not wanting some for yourself later.) Otherwise it will still be sitting on the counter until you do.

5. Then you turn your attention to the drawer(s) or cabinet doors he was in & close them all the way. (Thankfully you need not worry about the refrigerator door, because if it's functioning properly, it closes all the way on it's own.) This is one step you'll have to repeat anytime he gets something from the kitchen.

6. If you don't have anything purposeful to speak to him about... let him go about his morning without talking to him. Remember he's probably still groggy... and / or is already involved in looking at something on the computer.

7. After he's done eating & has returned the dish to the sink & he's back in the computer room (or in the garage), go to the sink & rinse the bowl out completely. Because it never fails he will just have splashed a little water in it to say he did rinse it. You can skip this step if you have a great dishwasher that works properly to clean off dried food & milk residue. (Side note: I have a dishwasher, but it does not work as good as it could & hence the reason for this step!!)

8. Now you can go about your day, but remember step #5... & to keep out of his way, unless you have something useful to talk to him about.

9. (If he's coming home from somewhere & it's supper time you can continue with this step... however, if not, you may need to review steps 4 through 8 & do them according to the given situation.) Now, it's supper time... be sure to ask him what he wants. (Unless you've already discussed earlier in the day.) If you are having a serious craving for something give it for a suggestion... but be equipped to have it changed if he's not at all interested in it. You can always submit it for approval the next day.
NOTE: Also be able to recall if you have the ingredients to make what he wants. If not, it may require a trip to the store. If you don't have it & are not willing to go get it... try to suggest something else. IF he says "I don't know" or "Whatever", be sure to get approval for what YOU want to fix (or whatever you're going to run to get. IE: Which fast food place to get from.)

10. Try to have your plate of food ready to eat at the same time or shortly after his, because he will want to sit & watch tv while he's still eating... if not, he will gripe about how he's about done before whatever you planned to watch has even started.

11. If you're not wanting to watch something that interest only him... then be sure to say: "Yes, we have stuff to watch... please don't get involved in anything." Otherwise he will grab the remote & you'll be stuck watching either some outdoor / hunting / racing (that you're not a fan of) or other type of show that you would not land on. Also, you'll probably want to be in control of the remote because of your quicker reaction... most of the time... to fast forward through commercials... if watching something paused or on the DVR. Just don't say anything on how much slower he is at it than you. Furthermore, if you're the one choosing what to watch, be sure to get his approval of the program... unless discussed earlier.
(If on the off chance you give him the remote or don't say anything, don't complain about what he chooses to watch, unless prepared to be snapped at about how he never gets to view what he wants.)

12. While watching, if it's something you really want to see, try your best to pay attention so you don't have to rewind... and make sure you are on top of skipping the ads. And try not to pause to use the bathroom or to get something... anything. But of course it never fails you'll have forgotten to put salt on your food or something & if you HAVE to get up... if so, be sure to listen carefully to the tv... other wise you'll have to pause or rewind which will inevitably incur a bit of resistance.

13. When you're both done eating, if he has not already taken his plate to the sink, be sure to ask for his dinnerware on your way to the kitchen. (On the rare moment he beats you to it... remember step #5!)

14. The program is over & now what? Be sure to compromise on something else, if he doesn't get up to not watch anymore.

15. As the night comes to the end, don't forget to ask.... "Do you need up at anytime tomorrow?"

16. Go back to Step #1!!

You have to remember to be extremely flexible & ready to amend any step to fit the protocol of the particular happenings!!

Plus there are so many other little actions that need to be implemented that can't be mentioned & just need to use the above as a base & take all this with a grain of salt....

There is ABSOLUTELY NO guarantee that any of this will work, because a man is just like a woman... entitled to change his mind about how he will respond!

Moral: Pick your battles!!

UFC - #146 - Serenity

Here's what I (Lady Harley) have challenged the other authors, in the group, to write about...

In whatever format you wish... your challenge today, if you choose to accept, is to write a "1st person" piece about "your perfect sanctuary for writing... if money were no issue".

Please detail the sights, sound & smells that would soothe you into a rhythm of continuous writing.
It would help, but not necessary, if you were to add... why you would go & how would you get to the hideout.

If you wish... you may include a line or two (or more) of the story (or, novel, poem, song, etc.) you are working on while at your perfect spot. (Yes it can be something you're currently working on... if you wish. Who knows, maybe it will be the start of a new project for you???)

(IF you do, be sure to italicize those parts so that we can tell it's not part of the main story.)

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SUBMISSIONS.

SERENITY

©LadyHarley©
"Not again?" I mumbled, as I heard car screech up the alley in between our house and the neighbors. Then came the sound of the horn. HONK HONK HONK!

One of these days, I swear, I'm going to get up & yell out the door: "Hey, can't you all just go to the door & knock? Don't you know I'm trying to write a best selling novel in here?"

But of course, I won't. That is not in my nature. Instead I turn to my husband and tell him, "If this keeps up I'm going to MY hideout!"

He laughs knowing there is no such place.

"Just you wait, you'll see. Soon as I publish my first book, I'll have enough money to buy a little cabin in the woods for me to disappear to."

"And just how would you get there?" He inquires.

I knew he was just trying to get my mind away from the inconsiderate noises coming from next door. "Oh, didn't I tell you? We have a tele-port pad, so I can just transport myself in an instant!" I replied.

Later that night as I'm sitting on the couch typing away on my laptop, I heard the bouncing of a basketball. One of the kids in the neighborhood was on his way home, from the school courts down the road, and insists on dribbling the whole way.

"That's IT! I can't take it anymore!" I exclaim as I slam the lid on my computer. "How am I supposed to write with these kind of distractions?"

I lower my head into my hands and with my eyes closed I whispered to the angels in heaven, "Am I asking too much to have some peace and quiet so I can finish this novel?"

With my eyes still closed I leaned back and began to shiver. Not wanting to open my eyes, I asked my husband to go close the windows. Waiting for some tongue and cheek reply I thought how nice it would be to in front of a fireplace with the snow falling outside and no one around for miles. "Serenity at it's finest." I said.

When he didn't reply, through the slit of one eye, I checked to see if my better half was asleep in his lounge chair. Not only was he not in his chair, but also his chair wasn't there. With both eyes now wide open I see that I'm not even in my own house. Starting to panic, I stood up slowly in case someone was listening for me to stir, so they could pounce on me.

At that moment a cool breeze shuffled the curtain hanging near a slightly opened door on my left. In front of me was a crackling fire in a rustic fireplace. I walked slowly to my right where the smell of fresh brewed coffee and chocolate cake wafted.

Half expecting someone to jump me I peeked into the empty kitchen and wondered how I even got to this serene place. A note with my name, on the counter, caught my attention. Carefully, I picked it up, hoping it was not some kind of trap.

"Welcome to Serenity, the place for you to escape to when you need a little alone time to concentrate on your novel. I hope it was everything you imagined it would be."

With my jaw dropped I flipped the paper over to look for a signature, but it was blank. I did not recognize the writing and I just stood there with many questions buzzing through my head. Just then a timer went off on the stove. As a matter of reflex I opened the drawer next to me to pull out an oven mitt and pulled the cake out of the oven.

When I pulled the mitt off my hand another note fell to the floor. This time I wasted no time to pluck it from the floor and read, "Enjoy the cake! Frosting is in the fridge."

"Hmm, someone knows me fairly well." I said aloud, finding the chocolate frosting. "Now I just need... " I stopped and turned around to find a coffee mug with cream and sugar next to it.

"Ohhh... this is just too good." I fixed myself a cup of coffee and walked back out to the room I started.

Greeted by the cool air, I went to the door to close it. I looked out the big picture window and saw snow lightly falling around the cabin. "Yes, this is perfect!"

Turning back around I saw my laptop sitting open waiting for me to continue writing. Trying to figure out how I missed seeing it moments ago, I sat down to find another note staring at me on my computer screen.

"No worries. Just write!"

I clicked opened the file which my book was saved, and began to type:

Something told Lily that she needed to listen to Trip. So, she raced to the drawer where she kept the flashlight, quickly checking it and ran down the stairs. She started to pace with worry that Sammie would not come out from under the bed for Trip. Lily started to ascend the stairs in time to grab Sammie from Trip as he turned to pull the door shut.

Winds howled around the buildings in the town. Thunder cracked so loud that made Sammie yelp, and Lily give out a shout. Trip pulled them both close to him and reassured Lily they would be ok.
The lights flickered several times, however the when the winds finally calmed down the lights came back to their full brightness. Lily looked up to Trip with relief the storm seemed to be over.

“I have never experienced such a thing. What was that?”

“A tornado.” He responded quietly. “I could not sleep and so I turned the radio on when they broke in with the warning. My legs could not move fast enough to get to you.

I was lulled into a rhythm with some soothing sounds of my favorite instrumental melodies. It seemed like hours before I decided to take a break. Making my way into the kitchen for another cup of coffee, I ended up frosting the now cooled cake. I easily found the silverware and plates I needed to sample the delectable masterpiece.

After a well-deserved respite and my chocolate craving satisfied, I decided to take a gander around this lovely cabin to find more clues as to who pulled off such a feat. When I could not find any other evidence, I went back to my work.

A few more hours passed when I finally leaned back again, closed my eyes and sighed. "I can't believe I finished it."

"Seriously?" came the voice of my husband.

Once again my eyes flew open wide and I looked at him with a panic look.
 
"Seriously, you finished your book?" He asked again.

Still shaking, I muttered, "Huh?"

"You said you couldn't believe you finished it. Were you talking about your novel?"

"I did?" I replied.

Again, my mind is a whirlwind of thoughts. He heard me say that? What in the world is happening to me?

Still confused, I looked down at my screen and saw the last line written. It was complete.

"I guess I did."

"That's wonderful, now how about cutting me a slice of that cake?"

Knowing full well that I had not baked anything in this heat wave. "What cake?"

"The one that I can smell coming from that room over there." He gestured toward our kitchen.

Walking slowly to my kitchen and low & behold there is a frosted chocolate cake, but was missing one slice.

I nearly jumped out of my skin when the male voice behind me said, "You just couldn't wait, could you?"

Beside the cake was another note with the now familiar handwriting... "Anytime you're stuck, just imagine 'Serenity'... and you'll be there."
 
Looking up at my grinning hubby, I smiled and said, "I guess dreams to come true after all!!"

©LadyHarley©

UFC - #145 - Carnation Friends

While waiting for my challenge to be posted... & dealing with a bit of insomnia (it is now 6a!) I decided I'd do the challenge that is still open.

This one is by SkyeRider & here's her challenge...

You have been invited to a party that you are obliged to attend. No excuses. You have to buy a gift for the host/hostess of the party. The problem is that you dislike the person hosting the party. Write a scene using one of the following scenarios:
- You have just been informed that you have to attend the party and bring a gift.
- You have already bought the gift and are en route to the party.
- You are in a shop, choosing a gift for the party.
- The party is in progress and the host/hostess is about to open your gift.

***CLICK HERE FOR OTHER SUBMISSIONS.***

Carnation Friends
©LadyHarley©

I didn't know what to think when I saw the note stuck to my front door, demanding that I attend a birthday party for the neighborhood's town gossip queen. I really don't know her & I don't want to really get to know her.

She always comes to my door at the most inopportune time. Always trying to sell magazines or candy for one of her nieces or nephews functions. At least I didn't feel bad looking her in the face, instead of the children, & telling her we just don't have the money.

It became so annoying that we put a "No Solicitation" note on our door & kept the door closed at all times to be sure the note was seen. Instead of knocking, this time she taped the note to the door.

What I don't understand is why she stressing it upon us to be there. As if our life depended on it. Doesn't she have any real friends? Or does she have to force us to be her friends to celebrate her day. Oh, and she wants us to bring her a gift. Now, how rude is that to request gifts for herself?

I enjoy a birthday celebration when I know the person & can get them something I know they'll enjoy. I don't know this woman, and I don't know anyone else on this block that I just moved into one month ago. I only know what I hear as neighbors stand outside my window & gossip about, when she's not with them.

I figure since Bea was kind enough not to knock on my door at 6 a.m. to place the note, that I should be thankful & attend her party. (Just still don't understand why the gift.)

Sighing deeply, I see it's this afternoon. She's having a themed "Tea Party". Oh lovely, now I have to dress up. I wouldn't want to show up in jeans & a t-shirt while others will be dressed to impress!

I go get ready and luckily for me I am close to a little floral shop to pick up something nicely.

When I arrive at the shop, I see one my next door neighbor picking up some flowers as well. We exchanged smiles & nods as if we knew we both were going to the same party.

"Hi Rose", stopping her, and asked, "do you know what her favorite flower is?"

"Hi Bethany", she replied. "No, I honestly don't. I figured I would be safe with some regular pink carnations."

"Oh, those are MY favorite... and they are cheap too! Wonder what she would think if we both got her the same thing?"

"I think it would be twice as nice!!! How about you get some of the different colored ones... that would match these?"

"Wow Rose, you just made this task a lot easier on me! Thank you. & I'll see you there soon as I can get these wrapped up!"

She smiled and walked out the door & up the street to where the Tea Party was to be held.

Unfortunately I was detained at the shop while the girl look for just the right vase & some more baby's breath. I kept trying to tell her it didn't have to be perfect. Just something simple.

Then my card number wouldn't accept my code. The 1st 2 times. Finally the sale clerk took my card & ran it through her side & all when through. I knew it would, just don't know why it was being such a pain.

So, I get in my car, and carefully place the vase on the seat beside me. Thanking my lucky starts I ran into Rose who gave me a great idea.

I pull into Miss Bea Prissy's driveway, and had a chuckle at the thought of her name again. Then I felt for her, how rough her childhood must have been.

As I'm walking up the side walk, I had one last thought again about, why was I invited... and here I am probably the last one to arrive. I just hope my husband made some good excuse as to why we came separate.

I opened the door & there are all my neighbors yelling, "SURPRISE!!! Welcome to the Neighborhood!!!"

My jaw dropped to the floor, as I was in amazement that this party was for little ol' me. My husband comes up to me & kisses me on my cheek & said, "We got you good, didn't we Bethany?"

"You were in on this too?"

He nodded in reply and walked me around to introduce me to some of our new friends. Even Miss Bea Prissy was a lovely woman after all. Had to be to plan this all for someone who kept closing the door in her face.

Rose walked up to me with a big grin, "Now you know why I had your favorite flowers!"

I have her a big hug & thanked her for becoming my 1st true friend on the block! That afternoon I realized I had many more true Carnation Friends!!
©LadyHarley©

UFC - #128 - Deja Vu

Remember that poll about modern day inventions? Well, here is the story that I needed it for. Before we get to the story, though, let me take care of a little business 1st...

To read the challenge this was based on and other submissions, please CLICK HERE!!

Also, the below is mainly fiction, spice in with a little bit of truth (mainly of my job from the past.) Hope you enjoy! :o)

Déjà Vu - Lady Harley

March 19, 1986

Turning in my seat to watch as my younger self enthusiastically greeted customers at our local Bob Evans’ restaurant, I smiled at how silly them floor length skirts looked on us hostesses.

Thinking back to when I was hired on, I remembered how excited I was because I was going to get to wear the long skirt. Not sure what it was, I just know I felt special.

Rotating my chair back as not to draw attention to myself, I pat my pocket for about the 8th time to make sure the letter I had to deliver was still there. "One more cup of decaf, then you can complete your mission", I thought.

The reflection staring at me in the mirrored salad cabinet showed an elderly woman that bared a striking resemblance to my Grandma Gert. I figured that likeness would be the easiest way to approach my younger self and to complete the task at hand.

I didn't have to worry about what I was going to say; because I had already did it in the letter I was carrying.

Thinking back to what seemed like the day before, but was less than two hours earlier... I was seated in the same chair I was in now, except then it was March 19, 2009. I was there just to give myself a change of scenery while I was writing my novel. As I was preparing my first cup of decaf a woman dressed in an unusual suit sat down beside me. I glanced at her and gave an acknowledging smile.

Little did I know that this lady was here to talk to little ol' me. She turned in her seat and placed her hand on my arm. "Don't be alarmed, I just have a message for you."

"Ok" I hesitated.

"Answer me this, why are you using pen & paper to write you novel."

I stared at her. How did she know what I was writing? I've told no one what I was doing. My husband doesn't even know yet, because he is at work. I wouldn't tell him until he gets home.

"Uh." Was all I could mutter.

"I know what you're thinking. You're trying to figure out how I knew what you were writing." She said in a hushed tone.

"Yeah, how did you know that?"

"Believe it or not, you sent me to deliver a message, from the year 2034."

Again, I stared.

"Ok, think about it. Look at my clothes. You've not seen anything like this before, have you?"

"I just thought you were some runway model to gain publicity for some new crazy outfit."

She then pulled a book out of her briefcase and showed me the back cover. On it had a picture that looked like me, but older and with more white hair than brown. Underneath the photo was a synopsis of my life. Before I could read all about my past, rather my future, she quickly put it back in her carry all.

Before I could ask, she said: "You cannot read the summary, for the information may change my history, and your future."

I was just floored that I actually seem to have a published book.

"Alright, say I believe you're from the future, why are you here?"

"We need you to go back to 1986 to deliver a message to..." She paused as a waitress walked by.

Before she could continue, I interjected; "If you were able to travel back in time, why don't you just go? I know of no technology of time travel."

"I was only allowed to travel back 25 or less years. Because I'm only 26."

"So, why didn't my future self come back?"

"I can't go into those details. Just know that you trust me completely in the future." Just then her watch beeped at her, glancing at it, she groaned. "I don't have much time before I'm pulled back to my time. And I have to get to a place where no one will see me disappear. So, please no more interruptions. Ok?"

"Alright, why 1986 and who needs what message."

"You will have 1 hour to go back to deliver a letter to your younger self." She must have known my next question of how would I find myself in such a short time. "If you'll think back, you were working at this very restaurant back then."

I nodded and she continued, again as if reading my mind. "Before you return to 1986, you need to write the letter to convince yourself not to give up on novel writing. In this letter, you need to explain that the Internet will be there to help you succeed with your gift.

This has to be in your own handwriting. So, don't bother going home to type or print it out. Besides you don't have that kind of time. You will be leaving soon."

Again I nodded. Continuing on she said, "You have to word it in a way that you do not give away how the Internet works or anything else that will jeopardize your time-line of life. Meaning you can't mention who wins the Super Bowl this year or anything like that."

A waitress stops by to ask me if I needed anymore decaf, and if my friend needed anything. We both shook our heads.

"I must warn you, that when you return you cannot tell anyone else who you are, and why you are there. Besides no one will believe you. This is why you have to compose a letter. Also, you will not appear to anyone as you currently look. It would cause too much confusion.

Furthermore, your letter must be of encouragement. You must convey that your talent for writing must not be ignored, no matter what anyone tells you."

At this point I'm a bit puzzled. I'm trying to remember if I had ever been discouraged about what seems to come naturally to me.

"So, exactly how am I supposed to travel back in time?"

The young girl hands me a watch and explains, "Once I have returned to my time this will beep once. That means you have exactly one hour until you will be transported back. Then it will be twice when you have 1 minute before. I cannot stress it enough; you need to be in a location where no one will see you disappear. I suggest you stay in or near this building as not to delay you when you arrive back to 1986. Do you understand now?"

"I believe so, first beep, one hour. Two beeps, one minute. Need letter of encouragement. Can't tell anyone who I am. Does that about sum it up?"

This time she is the one to nod. "I must go now. I need to leave before it seems as if I disappear."

"What about the bathroom?"

"I would, but you see... no, I can't tell you that. You could do that, but I cannot."

Did she just about tell me this building wouldn't be here in 2034. Oh well, that's none of my concern. I was more worried about what I was going to say in this letter.

I looked down at my coffee and back up to ask her another question, but she was already heading out the door. I tried to follow, she had already disappeared by the time I was able to get outside.

I stood there for a couple minutes to see if I saw her drive off, then I looked on either side of the building. With no one was around I wondered if I was imaging things. Then the watched beeped. It only took me about thirty seconds to realize I was not dreaming.

I strolled back to the counter where my coat and notebook was still laying. I picked up my pen and started to put my thoughts down.

After about 20 minutes I started to review what I wrote. I crossed it out and flipped the page to start again.

This time I composed a few lines and crossed them out. Once again I started to try to write something that would convince my younger self that I was not some freak and something believable that I'm from the future.

I shook my head, and thought, "This is never going to work."

Finally, I came up with a few sentences that I felt would not give any details away, but contained encouragement and was convincing enough. As I was about to proof read it, the watch beeped twice.

"Oh crud!" I mumbled.

I hurried to pick up my notebook and jacket. Tossed a note on the counter by my cup of decaf with a scribble of "BRB". Thinking that it may take longer, I quickly tossed a few bills beside the note, and then headed to the ladies room.

Just as I closed the restroom door, I saw a pink light and my ears popped. "What in the world?" For a moment I forgot I must have time traveled. But then a cold rush came over me as a little girl opened the door. She looked a little confused and I wonder how close was she to the door when that pink light flashed.

Shaking my head I just headed back to the counter. As I walked by several people I could tell that I actually did travel back to 1986. Then I bumped into my younger self. Wow, I had not really changed much, except no white or gray hair and a lot thinner.

The younger me looked at me as if she saw a ghost, but quickly apologized and asked if I was all right. I nodded and excused myself. I walked back to the counter and took the same seat I was just at, but in 2009.

It was then I realized why my younger version was a bit startled. I looked a lot like my Grandma Gert who had passed when I was in 8th grade, only 3 years prior for my 1986 self.

A waitress stopped by and asked if I had been helped yet. I started to say yes, but then I remembered, to her, I had just arrived. Then I realized, I know this girl, I used to work with her. "Not yet, Deanna. I'll just have a cup of decaf, please."

"Coming right up." As she stepped over to the coffee machine she asked, "How did you know my name?"

I mentally slapped my forehead, but quickly came up with an answer. "It's on your name tag."

"Oh, I'm just not used to folks paying attention." She places the cup down. "Please let me know if you need anything else."

"Thank you." I smiled.

As she walked away I breathed a sigh of relief.

I then turned to watch myself flit around like a little schoolgirl. Then I realized, back then I was just a schoolgirl! I was in the 11th grade, yet being a hostess at Bob Evan's was my second job.

I kept trying to think of a way to approach myself to deliver this letter. I must have been staring into space a long time when my younger self waved a hand in front of me. "Are you sure you're ok? I didn't think we bumped heads."

I laughed and said, "I was just day dreaming."

"Can I get you a refill?"

I looked at the watch the future girl gave me and said, "Oh no! I'm going to be late!"

"Well come up to the register, I'll get you cashed out."

Without thinking I followed myself up. Thankfully I still had a couple dollars in my pocket.

"That will be 89 cents."

"Wow, that's cheap!"

"Did you have more than a cup of coffee?"

"Oh no. It's just where I come from it's almost $2."

"Where did you come from, the future?" my younger self said sarcastically.

I about had a heart attack. Did I just ruin this? I thought.

Quick on my feet, I replied, "No, not really, just New York."

"Oh, that explains it." She said as I handed her a dollar bill with the letter under it.

"What's this?"

"Just a little note of encouragement. Please wait to read it until you're alone."

"Thanks."

"You're welcome. Have a good day."

Just then my watched beeped twice. "Well, I guess since I'm going to be late, I best use the restroom before I leave."

"Well, you know where it's at." My younger version giggled.

Again, as soon as I got the door shut, the light turned pink and my ears popped again. This time I was a tad bit woozy, so I leaned against the door for a moment to catch my balance.

"Did you see that light, Mommy? It was a pretty pink!" The little girl voice startled me.

There must have been a mom and daughter in the one stall when I was transported back.

As the mother tried to argue with her daughter that she must have been seeing things, I quietly made my escape and found my way back to that now familiar seat.

My note and money was still lying there next to a hot cup of decaf.

"Hmm." I whispered to myself, "I must have not been gone too long."

As if she heard me a waitress popped by and said, "Is the bathroom busy?"

I nodded. "May I have a to go cup for this. I need to be on my way." I asked, when actually I just wanted to get home to process what just happened.

At the register I felt that déjà vu feeling. I shook it off thinking it had to be just because of the time travel. When I reached into my pocket to pull out the dollars I picked up when returned to 2009, is when I felt the letter.

My first thought was, it was all a dream. But then I pulled it out and realized it was faded and tattered.

The cashier saw it & said, "Wow, that must be some special note or something."

"If only you knew." Was all I could think of.

When I reached my truck, I locked the doors and pulled the letter out to read it to see if it was what I thought. Soon as I started to read it, I remembered exactly my thoughts when I first read it 23 years ago.

I smiled as I did in 1986 at the words of encouragement and how it all made sense now.

"No matter what anyone tells you, you will succeed. In several years, you have the ability to share your talent for writing with anyone in the world, quicker than you can bat your eyelashes. It is a gift you will come to realize that you inherited from your Grandma Gert. Keep smiling! Yours truly... Me!"

UFC - #106 - Recap of 2008

FYI ... This is my letter... I need to still proof read it & add pictures... If you'd like to come back once I put the "updated" on it... that's fine. (I'm even going to turn off the comments until I have it complete.) Just wanted to be sure I "turned it in on time."
Thanks for understanding. :)

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Tickets Tickets... get your Tickets ready, for it's time to take a trip on The Rambling Train. (Family & friends who are not passengers yet, The Rambling Train is the name of my blog.)

Hop aboard for the train is about to leave the station for a nice long long ride... It won't be 100% smooth, but the bumps along the way are minor ones.

I, Lady Harley, am your conductor urges you to hold on with both hands & remember... The name of this train is The RAMBLING Train!!! (You've been fair warned!) LOL!!

Destination: A year (2008) in review... with a little from 2007 & 2006 to boot!
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The Rambling Train has spent many sleepless nights & pulled out many early mornings to take her passengers for a ride, in 2008. With stories from the past, creations of fiction, useless facts, trivia & word games, even a online gift exchange.

My dad, who lives in California, being one of them passengers has heaped the coal into the stove to keep the engine rolling on to create more stories. (He praises me every time I post one of my creative stories.) Other passengers (my friends) have done the same as well.

Oh, but this is just the beginning of the ride... I guess we should start back from....

The 1st day of 2008, the train took it's 2 main passengers (Hubby & I) to a town about an hour or so south to see his kids. Though his son was working we did get to spend a little time with his daughter BT. She's a beautiful, intelligent & talented almost 16 girl at this time. (Can't get over that she will be 17 THIS year!!)

The following day I rode to get some cold medicine for hubby & ended up coming home with a few Christmas decorations at 75% off! They were stored until the next Christmas.

Later in the month the train stayed at the station while we watched some winter shows. (Including the Barrett-Jackson Auction & the return of a favorite of ours: LOST!)

However, Hubby, being the sports enthusiast he is ended up missing the Super Bowl in early February due to being sent to California for work. Thankfully we have a DVR, so, he was able see it in it's entirety, when he returned. Upon his return, he brought back some Clementines from the company he was installing a machine for. They were wonderfully sweet... oh so sweet.

This was not the 1st trip he had to go on for his job... back in September of 2007 he became a world traveler. Destination: Russia! Thankfully it was only a 10 day trip. He ended up taking Planes, Trains, & Automobiles to arrive home.

(Side note: Hubby works at a small company where he makes automated (robotic) machines for other companies / factories. Then goes to the company, to install and / or repair. Things like egg carton printers. I'm amazed at his intelligence in this field. So far his longest treks have been to Russia & California. Though there are a few around her in Ohio that he travels to as well. There was talk of sending him to China, however, one of the bosses ended up going. He even thought he would have to make a return trip to Russia... alas, his visa was expired. So, he lucked out.)

Now let's get this train back on track & to the year 2008. (See why it's called THE RAMBLING TRAIN??)

After Hubby's trip to California I began to prepare for mine adventure out west to see my dad for his 70th birthday in April.

*Reaches up to pulls the emergency stop.* Let's back this train up a couple months... actually it's at this point I need to give a little recap from 2006 for those who haven't been on The Rambling Train before. (re: meaning we haven't talked to in years.)

I'll be brief... In Oct 2006, I had lost 10 years of my memory (due to a stress induced black out... which I (not officially been said by a doctor, but I can't find any other reason for the black out) have found to be from a condition I have called Chiari Malformation, aka: CM. I actually was born with it... but it's only detectable with an MRI. This is something I will have all my life as well. In short my brain stem is too large & it hinders the flow of the brain fluid... creating pressure... which in turn creates a multitude of symptoms. For more information, please see my blog (or call me).

This memory loss, resulted in me loosing my job I had for over 4 years. (I couldn't remember it, & they did not wish to retrain me & do as the doctor recommended... put me with a different supervisor.) There is quite a bit more to this, but I do not wish to delve that far into the past... Feel free to call, write, or email me for a link (info) that explains it all in great detail.

Just so you know, I have had a few memories return here & there... but still nothing significant. Researching my medical history & composing certain stories for my blog, has triggered several as well. Still, a huge gap looms. It can remain, far as I'm concerned... I'm focusing now on the future & what memories I've made since! (& Those from before the gap.)

Staying at home & wait for memory to return or Long Term Disability to be approved (but was denied), I found myself reteaching myself how to use the internet & such. A lot has come back naturally...

Anyway, this is how The Rambling Train (as it is known as since late 2007) came into existence... Again, more has happened since this all started... & it's still an ongoing fight now with Social Security Disability. (But that is not for now.)

Back to the Future (well, past now) we go.

I mainly brought all that up because in February 2008 (whew, back on track now!) we decided that I would cash in my 401k from that job, since I would not be returning. Pay off the truck & what's left get me a new laptop. (I had been using our desktop, which I hogged a lot from hubby once I really got back on track! Then I was gifted an older laptop so as to give hubby the time he needed to do stuff on the computer.)

Our family (mainly me) became the proud owners of a brand new Toshiba A215 Satellite laptop. Several of my friends & I on the web have named our computers... helps with creativity for one. Two, it's easier to say a name... So, $hiba was born on Feb 21st 2008. It's an acronym... $heer Heavenly Inspiration By Ability (to hopefully gain me some income... hence the dollar sign for the S.)

Then the train was off her schedule to sleep. Many days and nights were long trips through the world wide web. It has been worth it, for I have gained many new friends (some very very dear to me) & I have regained the knowledge of website creating & have been taking it to the advanced level as of recent.

But then someone pulled the emergency brake on the train in March. As everyone was out voting (Primaries) and hubby was at the monthly Harley Owner's Group meeting, I was battling a typical headache. It was raining outside most of the day, but then turned to ICE! At one point, after dark, I looked out the front door and thought what a beautiful picture this would make.

After a couple failed attempts to get one from inside with the screen door propped open, I decided to brave the elements for a few moments... figured it would be worth it for the shot.

My feet had other things in mind. One step out the door & BOOM BOOM BOOM, down I went 3 ICY concrete steps. (Never occurred to me that even with an over hang the steps would be slick.) A friend told me: "That's why they call them slippers!"... yep, I was in my slippers! Anyway, with a bruised ego, a wrenched back, I made it back up them same 3 steps (holding onto the screen door) & was able to reach hubby.

Even though I still to this day have troubles, I've turned this into a blessing... I found my passion that I had been looking for years. I knew sort of I had a talent to write... but being held captive to my couch with only my computer & tv to keep me occupied... I began to create. I can honestly say I'm an author now... Though, only places I've published is on the web... SO FAR!!

That week we ended up in what I termed the "Blizzard of '08"! We had over TWO FEET of snow! I was loving every minute of it... from the couch that is!

Hang on, for The Rambling Train pulled into the station, a week later, to get a branding. Yep, I got my 1st tattoo. I wonder if it had not been for the pain pills I was already taking if it would have been more painful. Don't worry, this was not done with haste. I had been wanting one (for some odd reason) for a long time.

Things just worked out that I found exactly the image I wanted and a blast from the past (read: a dear friend from high school) offered to drive me to her trusted artist. Thankfully it was a small one, so it was over within a half hour. I still adore it... so, in my opinion, it was worth it. It's on my ankle & here's a picture...

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Rambling on into April, as mentioned earlier, I took a trip to California to see my dad. This time, I made it through without being delayed in any airports. (A few years earlier I was stuck in Vegas over night, because the airport in Cali was fogged in. Thankfully I was blogging at this time & was able to refresh my memory of them details.)

Taking along $hiba, I kept the passengers entertained about my vacation. It was a joyous trip to see my dad & step mom again. Even though I took many days taking naps, they were still able to take me to the ocean, shopping, dining, & even to get some wonderful photos of the sunset on top of Black Hill Mountain.

My step-mom took me to some thrift shops where I picked up a few bargains. Including a beautiful watch for only $3. When at the grocery store, I picked up a bag of Clementines to bring back to Ohio. Oh so sweet!!

Full speed ahead now... Late spring, Hubby acquired a dirt bike. So much of his spare time (when not working) was going to the club to ride, race, or to a meeting. He is joined by a best friend & his friend's family. More power to him, I say. I can't get on my own Harley right now, let alone a dirt bike. He has a blast & has come home with that good exhaustion feeling.

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In the later weeks of June I spent most of my time helping my mom organize our big family reunion on the farm. I made parking signs, lists of things to do & to get, & emailed invites & updates.

July 5th arrived & over 150 people had joined us at the C.A.T.F. (Celebration at the Farm). We couldn't call it a family reunion because there were just as many friends as there were family memebers. Being a huge success, I have a feeling we will be doing it again this year. Plus we have a better handle on what to do & what not to do.

This is my mom & her siblings.

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Hold on to your hats, this train is about to go even faster...

A week later I almost stepped on a baby bird while bring in our 2 dogs from doing their business. (How is it I've just now mentioned them... they are my babies!! Coleman & Sunny.) Anyway, I scooped up this little one with a paper towel & searched for the nest. I could not find it, so I called my mom... This poor little thing, it hardly could move around & it was steaming hot out.

Mom told me to call the vet to see what could be done & they told me about the Ohio Bird Sanctuary. I ended up driving him over there & learned they are the ones who takes care of such little guys like this. (Oh, I had named him Harpo on the drive... because he would try to squeak, but you couldn't hear him.) They took him from me & showed me what they do. The ladies there were very nice. Unfortunately Harpo did not make it through the night... & it was not for the lack of effort on their part. He had gone home with one of the girls.

It just instilled in me how amazing God is in creating and timing is. Though this little one was not alive long... he still was not alone as he would have been had I not seen him in our drive. It was worth a try, in my book at least.

Late July we had a scare with Grammy... she had technically died... however, she came back to us. One, I think it was so she could make it to her 90th birthday in December... & 2 as a neighbor put it... "She got up there & saw her bed wasn't ready. So, she said 'Fooey on you! I'll be back when my bed is ready!'" She is still with us to this day... she is now past her 90th birthday & working towards that 91st one!
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This picture is of Grammy, my sister Gina, Mom & my other sister Renee. (I'm taking the photo.) This is from the day I had my first TimTam... oh... what's a TimTam? It's a chocolate cookie (biscuit type) cookie with soft chocolate in the center. It's an AUSTRALIAN treat! I had them shipped to me by a very dear friend from Australia. I am HOOKED on them!
**Flips the switch** / side note... Target is selling them here in the USA for a limited time! They are in a white package by Pepperidge Farms... So, if you see them in the cookie aisle... you best snap them up... if I haven't already!! Hee Hee!!

Hurricane season was in full swing, along with Nascar... but before we knew it, Pre-Season Football started. Which meant Hubby was back on his computer trying to get his players in order for the Fantasy Football League LIVE Draft at one of our friends. This year they needed an extra team... so, I jumped at the chance.

It's always a hoot when you get about 12 football fans (nope, I was not the only female in the league!) together in a (finished) basement to draft who they think will score them the most points throughout the season.

Even though I supposedly had the WORST draft team in the leagues history... I ended up with THIRD PLACE!! Not bad for my 1st year doing a live draft & 2nd year in this time of a Fantasy League.

Hubby had scored the most points of all the league... however, since it was a head to head type, he ended up in 7th place. We won't mention who ended up beating him in the playoff's to send him to the consolation round. (*giggles*) ... Oh, but he got revenge on me in our Nascar Fantasy League... tackeled me to the ground & ran off to grab the championship trophy!
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At some point my son, Mike, sort of moved off the farm into a little efficiency apartment of his own. (It's on the 3rd floor of a house that my sister Gina & her hubby Aloys owns.) I say sort of, because even though Mike is 19 years old now, he is still in high school & has to stay at the farm to get on the bus. (If Mom doesn't drive him in.)

Anyway, in early September, I ended up having a "pillow fight" with him. He had left his pillows at the farm & had returned back to his little place & wanted me to go get them. Well, since I was going to the farm the next day for an event at my childhood church, I said I'd pick them up then. HOWEVER, he would not get them until he could clean up his apartment & give me a few bags of trash.

Thus ensued the "Pillow Fight"... I held them "ransom" until he finally called me, about TWO WEEKS later, to let me know he had trash ready to be picked up. I thanked him & his pillows were safely returned to him. (Lesson learned, I had only hoped!)

In between that Hurricane IKE barrelled on through Mid-Ohio (as a Tropical storm)... leaving in it's wake a multitude of downed power lines & tree limbs. Once again, our home was spared. We never lost power (though flickered a few times.) or any tree limbs. I even was able to get some cool video of the strength of the winds. (If you're an internet user... send me an email & I can send you the links.)

Needless to say though it was scary, it was really interesting to have been able to watch all the coverage of this powerful storm. If it were not for the technology that we (as a nation) has to prepare us.... I do believe I would have been more scared... probably would have found a way to sleep down in my basement (unfinished & small) until the storm had passed.

Fall finally entered the scene & brought cooler temps. Though we had days were it seemed God was toying with us as it would hover around 80 to 90 degrees some times.

Of course, football is in full swing & Nascar is winding down. (Just like this train.) Leaves were turning colors & the days were getting shorter.

We (the world in general) lost a very notable legend... actor, Paul Newman. I only mention this, because I saw the blog I did as I'm scrolling through to remember items of interest. Them blue eyes kept staring back at me. What a wonderful, talented man he was.

As I said this train is about to reach it's final destination... (Remember... I did warn you at the start of the name of this train!!)

Around the bend The Rambling Train came upon 10-16-2008, (2 years from when I lost 10 years my memory.) On the following night I saw a moon big & orange. Not quite full, but it was a great reminder that it was the harvest season.

Then we round the corner to the dreaded Presidential elections. Let's just say I did make it to vote this time... Unlike back in March.

November chugs in & I entered a "Novel Writing Challenge"... To write 50,000 words in novel form. I actually didn't see the challenge until the 11th day. However, I made & exceeded the goal. The novel, is not complete, though. You never know, I might be able to get something published other than on the web!! :o)

We also had a new addition to our family, which I have eloquently named: Clifford..... The BIG RED TRUCK!! Yep, we have a new (used) truck. The one Hubby had was sold by his brother... when his brother was borrowing it. (Of course, it was discussed before hand. It's just funny though.)
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Once again we spent Thanksgiving at the Farm, however, it was just a few of us... rather than the usual 20 to 30 people Gina would host. After the feast we played Scrabble, where Hubby & I beat the pants off of Aloys. Who is one of the best players I've ever seen.

Rolling on into December where we celebrated Grammy's 90th birthday, with a party. Many of her friends from the past showed up to give her wishes & "many more" blessings.

A week later, went to our church's 9th Christmas Euchre Party, where fun, food, & fellowship was had by all in attendance.

The wheels are slowing down.
Christmas arrived in a hurried about fashion this year, for us... but still we enjoyed the day. To my delight it ACTUALLY SNOWED on Christmas morning!! I was so ticked... because it looked like the night before it would be a brown muddy one. Even though the snow didn't stick around until the evening... I can honestly say we had a White Christmas! And I have PROOF!! :o)

We have braved the bitter cold already several times in the late fall & early winter. However, living in Ohio, brings about some odd weather. The other day it was near 60 degrees. Yet today we are back to 25. Next week by this time, we may be lucky to reach the teens!

Hey... what you going to do when winter comes? FREEZE, I always say! Well... actually, hide under my blanket with my one dog Sunny at my chest & the other, Coleman, at my feet!

Well, that does it folks. The ride has now come to almost complete stop. As you disembark, remember to have a WONDERFUL, SAFE and HAPPY NEW YEAR!

For more ride on "The Rambling Train", please go to...

Toodles all & **HUGS**