That Janie Girl

Dogs Rule

2012-02-20T21:56:00.000-06:00

Meet Bailey.

She’s a miniature schnauzer.

And we were blessed to babysit her for the night.

When she strutted in, she was like a pimpin' Steven Tyler, pre-drug free days. Wondering who she might conquer, and what she might destruct, all in short order. No mountain was too high, no valley too low, she had it faded.

I took one look at this bit of black fluff, and figured out I’d better get her bluff pretty darn quick or I would pay for it over the next 24 hours. So I began to blow her mind. With training, not drugs. I know, you're still on the Steven Tyler line, aren't you?

Within an hour or two, she was sitting upon command, and downing upon command. By the next round of training, I had her giving me 5 with one paw while sitting down.

She would retrieve a pig ear rawhide for me to throw again.

And before the night was out, she was asleep, upside down, in my arms.

I’d better watch out. She already knows how to order our favorite drinks at Starbucks.

AND schmooze the Barista.

She’s so smart she’s already figured out how to steal our hearts. Or at least maybe help heal them a little.

A Little More Cracked

2012-02-19T13:55:00.002-06:00

Damn you, cancer.

Michael and his Mom.

We lost my husband’s oldest living brother, Michael, last Monday night about 10:30 p.m. My husband was by his side, as were his wife and children and another brother. I cannot imagine what they all felt that night.

ThatManILove immediately called me, sobbing. My heart, already broken, broke some more, for my man and his family. I know what it’s like to lose a brother. Not fun. Killer deal. And here I was, going through some bizarro rerun, though a little remotely.

Being the only family in our town at the time, I was sent to inform Michael’s mom of her son’s passing.

My friend Clara was still here, thank God, so she went with me to my Mom-in-love’s to give her the news at 11 p.m.. My heart? Broke completely as I held this small woman whom I’ve grown to love as a mom, and told her that her son hurt no more. That her boy was gone. She sobbed. I wept. Clara wept.

I know, I know. Death happens.

For a mom to bury a child - it should not happen this way. And it’s really hard when you’re a mom, to see not one, but two of your sons pass before you. I remember watching my mom as my big brother passed. I don’t really know what “the natural order” of things is, but this cannot be right. It sucks. It really sucks.

We buried Michael yesterday. His beautiful wife and children put together the greatest video of photographs of his life, along with some of his most loved songs. The service was standing room only. This man, Michael, was an honorable man of great character and integrity. A man who loved his family, above all else.

I want to be like Michael. Heck, we all do. He was an amazing man.

I’m more than a little angry. Perplexed. Hurting, for those I love, who called this man Husband. Daddy. Pop-pop. Son. And Brother. I'm waiting and watching. Caring. Loving.

And I’m praying. Praying that healing will come, and please, Lord God, sooner than later. And until then, that Love will dull, and soon remove, the sting of pain for all of those beautiful people that are Michael's loves.

Happy trails, Mike. Until we meet again.

Meeting Myself Coming and Going

2012-02-11T01:45:00.001-06:00

It’s been a busy time.

My eldest brother-in-love has been at MD Anderson, and we’ve been spending quite a bit of time with he and the family there. And yeah - I still hate cancer.

I’ve been all over everywhere for business meetings.

And during this time, when we’re at the hospital in Houston, who decides to make his appearance in Austin, but our little grandson, Eli? Weighing a sweet 8.8 lbs and measuring 20.5 inches long! He is absolutely gorgeous, and mom and dad are both doing well. So proud of them.

Did I have my camera with me? No. We left so fast to go to Houston, and thought we'd return quickly, that I didn't take it. Hopefully I'll get to take some great pictures of the little man soon!

I swore I would try to post every day, but our “every day” lately has been full of work/hospitals/flying/travel and of course, we went to meet Eli. How cool it is to see ThatManILove hold his grandson! And how cool it is to see YoungerSon rocking it as a dad, and his beautiful wife rocking it as a mom. Isn’t it neat how parents just learn as they go, and they do an awesome job at it? Awesome to watch. Awesome, I say.

We’ve had a friend in from North Carolina who ministers in Kenya during a portion of the year...it’s so good to see her!

So, faithful readers, I’ll get track on back soon, I promise. Just hang with me here a bit while we get through this wee patch of taking care of business at hand. And then, go pick up the Wonderdogs from the trainer. God, I miss them so.

Until then, happy trails to you!

Calibrate, Calibrate, Dance to the Music!

2012-01-26T08:41:00.000-06:00

I took a Lightroom class last night - my first night of two.

I’m so excited. I learned so much!

One thing, probably one of the most important - that your edited pictures you see on your screen may not be what your viewers see...so get a screen calibration kit. Use it.

And be amazed.

That is the profound thought that is rocking my world today.

So be it.

ManCold…Little Tinkly Bell…Call 999

2012-01-23T20:58:00.000-06:00

Oh, nooooo.

ThatManILove has a cold.

Yup. I feel so sorry for him. I went and got him soup tonight. Then put an extra blanket on him. Listened to how I made things worse because he joined a client and myself for lunch. Then took the blankie off because he was too hot.

Sounding familiar, ladies? Yup. He is a sick man, indeed. Hang tight. He's getting a chill. I have to put the blankie back on.

Why? Because, he has a:

MANcold.

If any one of you even think of sending him a little tinkly bell, I will CUT you.

Meanwhile, ~~entertain yourself I mean~~ pray for him while you watch this video.

Game on, Manx. Game ON!

2012-01-20T19:02:00.000-06:00

I had a bit of time prior to catching the plane in Tulsa yesterday.

And as I am wont to do when outside my little podunk town, I drove my little rental car to the closest Dillards.

A sweet one, it was. Way bigger than the Dillard’s in our town. Way more selection of cute clothes, guaranteed to turn ThatManILove’s eyes my way. (You know, whenever he does get to come home. Yeah. Mmmmmhmmmmm. ) And, who knew I would have just enough room left in my checked bag to pack 8 items of clothing and still be under the 50lb limit? Yahoooo!

But, I digress.

I never know where to park when I go to a store that size, though. And invariably, I end up parking in the housewares...or the suitcase section.

Yesterday, though, I entered the Dillard's door, and voila! There I was, in menswear.

And what did I happen to see, but Spanx. In the menswear section.

Yup.

Spanx for Men. AKA "Manx."

And I knew, with all my being, that indeed, God is a just, just God. Because, you see, I myself have been laughed at, nay, ridiculed numerous times while getting into my Spanx. Be it the tights, or the cami, or, God forbid, the slip, donning Spanx is always an accident waiting to happen. Well, at my house, anyway, and with me at the controls.

I cannot wait until ThatManILove discovers Spanx for Men.

Who knows? I may mail him a package anonymously.

He’ll just think it’s a t-shirt. Or underwear. (Yes, ladies and gents, they have both. And they are beautiful, beautiful things, indeed. Oh, yes, they are.)

Until that beautiful moment comes...you know, the one where he tries to put it on? Then, my friends, a new ThatJanieGirl video will surreptitiously appear across the internet.

Bwahahahahahahahahhhhhhh! Game on, indeed!

Snoozebucket

2012-01-20T08:15:00.000-06:00

Another saga in the "It's Never Boring Around Here That Janie Girl Life"…

3:30 a.m. yesterday morning.

Renaissance Tulsa Hotel, Tulsa, OK.

"Ding. Ding."

"Good morning, Renaissance Hotel guests. You are now clear to go back to your rooms. We have discovered the reason for the fire alarm, and there is no danger to the guests. Please return to your rooms and have a great night."

Ummmm…what alarm?

I'm supposed to be out of my room?

I never heard the first announcement. I'm probably missing a Par-Tay out in the hallway.

Dannnnnnnng.

HELP! A Waffle Craving Has Been Flung Upon Me

2012-01-16T05:58:00.006-06:00

So, what the heck?

It’s 1:47 a.m., and I’m awake.

To be honest, I suck at sleeping when ThatManILove is out of town.

I have to fly out of here in the morning. And before I do that, I have to catch a chiropractor appointment, pack, run by the office to get some checks ready to deposit, and just generally get my proverbial poop together.

And...I’m awake.

Awake enough to write this plaintive cry of dismay. (Otherwise known as the literary version of WHINE.)

Awake enough to consider going to get something to eat so I will sleep. You know, like something that would inspire a carb coma or something? (But scared I will miss my 5:30 a.m. alarm if I do so. And also, pretty scared of my trainer, aka ~~Cruella DeVille~~ V'Lesha. I’ve heard about what happens when V'Lesha wears purple shoes. SCARY, people. SCARY.)

It’s all Crystal's A Pistol’s fault.

She left a comment on my blog. And I was awake, and responding to emails, and checked out her blog.

And her man, who obviously is not out of town, made her “The Daddy” of all waffles. And to make matters worse, she posted pictures.

And the craving was, therefore, flung. Upon me. For waffles.

And to top that baby off, I wanna know just how that woman, Crystal, can look like that and eat “The Daddy” of all waffles? She is gorgeous.

I clicked “follow”. Because I’m gonna find out. And the icing on the cake is that she’s really funny, too.

Meanwhile, back to the real issue at hand...does IHOP deliver?

Brooke and her 4H "Jamie's Coconut Cake"

2012-01-14T09:19:00.001-06:00

My 10 year old friend Brooke simply amazes me. We've been good friends since she was 1 1/2 years old. She works alongside me as my photography assistant, and takes every picture I take on a scheduled shoot. She's won statewide awards in 4H with her photos. Already. I LOVE this kid. And she's not (yet) too big to play in the mud.

This is the end of her first year to raise, work, and show lambs, and she is rockin' Texas. She just won her 1st Junior Showmanship Buckle in the Texas Best Sheep Show Series. And now, we are currently in the middle of our Midland County Livestock Show, and she won some major awards yesterday. (See video!)

While attending school, AND getting her animals ready for the show, 3 days ago, Brooke began the process of baking her cake for her Culinary Arts 4H submission. (During this time, her mom had to go to San Antonio to be with Brooke's grandfather for his surgery.) And at 10 p.m. last night, I arrived with the cake board and doily and watched as Brooke put together the icing ingredients for her cake entry. Everything had to be made from scratch. And people, that was some GOOD icing.

Did I tell you that this child has compiled a cookbook that is currently in it's fourth printing? Read about it here.

She's 10, people. Ten. 1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10.

Meet my friend Brooke. She's funny, smart, and has a heart of gold. I love this child. Oh, wait. I said that already.

I'm Alive!

2012-01-11T07:34:00.000-06:00

It's been over a month since I've last posted?

How time flies when you're having fun!

Quick update - had meniscus repair on my left knee. My days have been consumed by (1) physical therapy and (2) working out trying to get back in shape and (3) working in the oil patch!

Christmas and New Year's passed by in a flash, as ThatManILove was out in the field most of that time.

I'm improving, every day. Hope y'all are all well!

Here's this morning's funny, from me, to my ~~nemesis~~ trainer, ~~Cruella DeVille~~ V'lesha.

Now, give me a ~~mere half hour or so~~ minute as I creep out to the car to start yet another day!

Deck The Halls!

2011-12-05T06:00:00.019-06:00

Today’s been a lovely day, even recuperating. ThatManILove has pretty much grounded me to one of our living room chairs, my left leg up on pillows, with a circulating polar ice therapy machine cuff wrapped around my knee.

We usually travel over Christmas, due to the fact that both of us had prior marriages and children. Children of divorce have to split their time between all their parents, so we try to make it as easy on our boys as possible.

But this year, we had discussed: Christmas decorations? Yes, or No?

Susan and Jacey Glover of Ruth and Naomi Landscaping came over and put winter color in our flowerbeds. I heard they were making Christmas wreaths, and asked to see them prior to their show. They came over and let me pick one out, and and a date to install the tree and decorate was made from there. They are such sweet ladies, and really know how to put the plush on!

So...welcome to the creation of our first Christmas tree.

Here it is at the start.

And here come the first ribbons. Isn’t the lime green color wild? I love it!

And more decor.

And now, the brown fur ribbon! Yes, fur!! (Fake, of course!)

And....all the accoutrements! Looking awesome, and they're not even finished yet!

The red pheasant feathers. What? You've not ever seen a red pheasant? Take it from me, the accomplished bird hunter…they don't exist. But aren't they beautiful?

And here?

The wreath, that started it all. Well, that, and ThatManILove. Here's a final shot of the tree.

I like it… this picture doesn't do it justice - it's absolutely beautiful.

Dang. Does this mean I have to go shopping now? But I'm grounded...

Gimpy Girl

2011-12-03T15:42:00.003-06:00

Yikes. It’s been a while since I posted. Hope you all had a great Thanksgiving! Update on my brother-in-law, Mark: his post surgery Pathology test came back clear, great news!

As to my other brother-in-law, Mike, he is undergoing chemo treatment as I write this. He is desperately fighting lymphoma. ThatManILove took blood tests to see if he will be compatible as a bone marrow donor for his oldest brother, and we are awaiting those results. We are hoping for positive results.

Thank y'all so much for your continued prayers for them both.

Were y’all able to do that tongue-twister from my last post? That seems like a year ago!

I’ve not been posting because I’ve been busy getting everything ready and all my ducks in a row so I could have arthroscopic knee surgery Dec. 1st.

We finally got rid of our huge red sectional, and got new furniture in, a day at a time. First, we bought the coolest chairs. And then, we bought this really cool curved Flexsteel couch, cream colored leather. Absolutely beautiful.

But it didn’t fit in our living room, so we had to take it back. Waaaah. And the furniture store gracefully refunded the money. Yaaaaah!

Then we went to another store, a furniture store that is going out of business, and found another couch. The living and dining room and kitchen are shaping up nicely.

And then we found a new dining room table, and chairs. They will be delivered Friday.

Which was yesterday.

Did I get everything done prior to my surgery? Nope. I had to put off several people for their Christmas photos, and still have some "real" work to do. I did give it the old college try, though.

Did I have surgery? Yes. And I’m doing well. Yesterday afternoon, I was walking all around the house. Today? Not so well with the walking deal. I’m on my 3rd pain pill since getting out of surgery, and that helps. But I hate taking them, I hate the way they make me feel.

But I will survive, and hope to be better than new, soon!

Friends are bringing by food tonight, and it will be fun to see them. I hope I can stay awake!!

What the Pluck?

2011-11-13T06:00:00.004-06:00

Here's your Sunday kind of cool thing to do. (Well, if you can't do it right the first time, stop. Repent. And wait until Monday.)

Say this.

Six times. In a row. As fast as you can.

I'm not the pheasant plucker. I'm the pheasant plucker's mate, and I'm only plucking pheasants 'cause the pheasant plucker's late.

I'm not the pheasant plucker, I'm the pheasant plucker's son, and I'm only plucking pheasants 'til the pheasant pluckers come.

I Found Another Me!! (Well, sort of…)

2011-11-12T10:00:00.000-06:00

I’m always gritching and whining about needing another me, because I’m so busy all the time with travel, etc..

A good salesperson needs time to assimilate all the information he or she has collected, and share that information with bosses, coworkers, etc. That’s how sales works...it begins with a collection of information, and ends with the proper dissemination of that information, and then delegation of such, if one has a team. And then, one goes from there to building relationships, being a solution provider, etc.

I came a little closer to that goal - the one of finding another me - today.

I found an iPhone app for importing contacts.

People, people, people are my resume. I’ve gathered quite a few work acquaintances, customers and friends over 27 years in the oil and gas industry.

Before this morning, I had 6837 contacts in my iPhone.

I am not kidding.

Within 45 minutes, I had uploaded 50 more, bringing that total to 6887. All by taking simple picture of each card. If the card was a regular white card, with simple graphics, it took about 30 seconds to take the photo of the card, check for accuracy, and export to my phone.

This is revolutionary, people.

The app is WorldCard for iPhone. WorldCard also has apps for Droid, Blackberry, and others. AND if you use Cloud, you can send the card there, too. Cloud means you never evah evahevahevah lose your stuff (relatively speaking).

My particular app was $5.99. Best bang for the buck I’ve had in a while.

Wanted to share. If you only meet 10 people a month, it’s worth it.

Here's a quickie youtube review of how it works. Thanks, Jonathan! You ROCK!

Happy trails to you, until we meet again! (and when we do, I'll have your contact info & blog in my contacts in about 2.3 seconds, thanks to WorldCard!)

Carol Anderson Would Be Proud

2011-11-10T06:00:00.000-06:00

Today was c.r.a.z.y.

I overslept a tad. Had to rearrange breakfast pickup for customers.

Went to a doctor’s appointment, then went to the office.

Worked on several things simultaneously, getting ready for an AADE National Board Meeting. Went to lunch w/ coworkers, then went to chiropractor, then from there to orthopedic surgeon to do the preop paperwork for my upcoming knee surgery.

Went home, changed to dressier attire for the Wildcatter’s meeting at the Petroleum Club, attended event, then met friends for supper.

By now, it’s 8:30 p.m. I’ve fed the dogs, and decided to pick up poop before I run back to the office. Poop. You know, dod poop. Out in the back yard. In the dark.

When I’m almost through scooping poop, I realize - I have on my brand new Cabi “Editor in Chief” jacket. Taffeta collar and all.

YEAH - THIS CUTE LITTLE NUMBER.

And my fanciest flats.

And I’m shoveling poop.

I bet Carol Anderson would be so proud.

WAIT. What's that smell?

Thank You For the Rain!

2011-11-08T06:00:00.000-06:00

Oh, my Lord. I’m so excited!

It finally rained here tonight.

Not once. Not twice.

But three times.

It smells so good and fresh. I would show you a picture, but it's 1:15 a.m. So, just sit back, imagine you can hear the sound of rain drops hitting…everything! And that you can smell the freshly washed air. Take a minute - it will be well worth it!

I am so very thankful.

Have a blessed Tuesday!

Update on The Brothers

2011-11-07T06:30:00.032-06:00

Wow. Time has flown by! Thanks for all your comments and prayers.

In reference to my “Cancer Sucks” post, my brother-in-law is doing well post surgery. Once ThatManILove got off his current well, we went and stayed with them a couple of days and had a lovely time!

His pathology report came back clear, which is excellent news. I appreciate your continued prayers for Mark.

At the same time, we received a report that TMIL’s oldest brother, Mike, is out of remission and he’s undergoing chemo again.

Man. So I’m going to hold my thought: cancer still sucks. But I’m praying for another miracle! Join me, if you will.

Since I last wrote, I’ve been in Houston, Waco, Dallas, and Denver. It snowed 10 inches in Denver, and when I left that lovely city, it was a cool 17 degrees. Brrrrr!

I’ll be heading to Houston twice this week, once for a meeting, and the second time for the American Association of Drilling Engineers Fin Feather Fur Food Fest! I will quit eating, in preparation for this huge Thursday gala, on Monday. If you’re near Humble, Texas, buy a ticket and come on! Everything cooked has to be wild game, either fin, feather, or fur related. It is so much fun...I’ll post pictures!

My friend Brooke, at her brother's MUD birthday party in May. Love this picture!

My little friend Brooke, who is 10, helped me do baby bump shots yesterday. I’ll be editing her pix today (she shot right alongside me), but here she is, doing art work on the mommy’s tummy.

Brooke, working away! Heather, mommy of the baby bump, was quite impressed!

End result of Brooke's art work.

We had a great time!

Happy parents-to-be!

When I left Brooke yesterday, she was shearing her lambs in preparation for a stock show this morning, 2 hours away. She's a hard working little girlie, and I love her so!

Brooke, shearing her show lamb.

Hope your week is lovely. Thanks for hanging with me!

Cancer Sucks

2011-10-13T08:06:00.000-05:00

Today finds me in the beautiful town of Waco, where my brother in love will today undergo surgery for prostate cancer.

I love being around he and his wife, they’re so much fun - even in the face of adversity such as this. They constantly make me laugh.

Have I told you I hate cancer? I do. I hate it.

There’s nothing right about it.

So, say a little prayer for Mark today, will you, please?

And until I write again, here’s a photo for you to enjoy.

This sweet little girl was at the roping this weekend, and I noticed she was taking care of something in her coat pocket. I asked her, "What do you have there?"

And she pulled out, very carefully, this beautiful monarch butterfly.

Sweet, that.

I love kids...

Busy Girl

2011-10-11T07:46:00.000-05:00

Event season is over for this year.

I'm so glad.

Another reason I'm happy? After the API Team Roping (my last event!) Brody and Emily came home for a couple of days, with horses and dogs in tow. And that, my dears, makes a mama happy.

Happy trails, until we meet again!

Laughter Is The Best Medicine

2011-10-06T07:27:00.001-05:00

I confess. I have.

You Really Can't Live Well Without Us...

2011-10-05T06:05:00.000-05:00

(another repost from my old blog)

You know, the energy industry is either boom or bust, feast or famine. I’ve been doing what I do for 25+ years, and I don’t think we’ve had a time when we could just “cruise.” To top it off, media hates the oil and gas industry. All they can talk about is the price of a gallon of gas...something that is regulated by many different things. Sometimes, it’s wearing to be in a field that is always in the negative limelight.

I go places (outside the oilfield), and people ask what I do. When I tell them, they frown. And then, tell me, “You are EVIL.” I’m always nice, but inside, I want to scream, “Do you know you really can’t live well without us?” So, I decided I’d show you a little bit about my industry. It is, after all, an industry that I dearly love. And who knows, maybe you'll see it a little differently after today.

Way past the basics of energy for your house, and gas for your vehicle (car enamel, dashboards, antifreeze, safety glass for that front window, additives, oil, tires and fan belts, etc.), there are some of the menial things essential to living well that you utilize every day... and they all are derived in some form or fashion from the oil and gas industry.

Got an IPod? The casing is plastic. Plastic is made from...wait for it...petroleum.
What about that laptop or desktop? Sweet. Oilfield, baby.
Cameras for those great picture moments? For sure, oil.
Play a guitar? What makes up your strings? Oil. Oh, yeah, baby, sing it. Right through those speakers. That, by the way, are also made from a petroleum product.

Wear makeup? Most makeup has a petroleum base.
Perfume? Eyeglasses? Even your soft contact lenses? Oil, baby.
Seal it with a kiss...because your favorite lipstick probably is made from petroleum.
Need cold cream to take that lipstick off? Thank the oilfield.
How about nail polish? Oil. Don’t like the color, need nail polish remover? Oil.

Does your kiddo draw with crayons? Yup. Oilfield.
Play with Legos? Oilfield. Model cars, trains, planes? Oil and gas, baby.
Baby dolls, trucks, trikes and bikes? Oil.
Huggies? Luvs? Passies? Made from oil...to help you take care of that precious baby. And when you put him or her in that life-saving carseat? Rest assured, it’s made from Oil.

Are all your clothes white? Or that unbleached fabric? Because if they have any color to them at all, the dye has some petroleum product in it. Speaking of clothes, the detergent you wash them with - is a petroleum product.
Go fishing? Fishing rods, line, nets, boots, lures, life jackets, oars. Cooler. Water skis. Wakeboards. Tow rope. Fishing BOAT, for God’s sake. All petroleum based.
Shower curtain? Shampoo? Hand Lotion? Oil and gas. Again.

How about that cellphone? Coffeemaker? Those cool little appliances that help you make it through the day, from drying your hair to making a grilled cheese? And do you play those old LPs or CD’s throughout the day? All petroleum based.
.
Scotch Tape? Electrical tape? Duct tape? Glue? Paint brushes? Paint rollers?
Bicycle/motorcycle helmets? Trash bags? All that, and more are made from oil.

Do you use a toilet seat? Yeah. Seriously. You’re sitting on oil, baby.
How about those credit/debit cards? P.l.a.s.t.i.c. - made from o.i.l.

Are you a golfer? You couldn’t be without those little white balls! Petroleum. Shooter? Parts of your gun are made from oil. Tennis player? Rugby? Any sport known to man? I bet the oil and gas industry has some part in it.

Wax your floor? Yup. Is it linoleum? Yup again. Use a mop? Burn a candle? Oil.
How about when you write a check? Use a ballpoint pen? Oil.

What if you fall and get a booboo? Need a bandage? Oh, yeah, honey, it’ll get better with oil. Are you diabetic and need insulin injections? The syringes...are made from oil.
Take antihistamines? Aspirin? Cortisone? Wear dentures? Use a toothbrush, comb, brush, hair curlers? Glycerin, insect repellant? Gotcha. All made from Oil.

Anyone been in the hospital lately? The shunt they put in your arm to start an IV---oilfield. The Christmas tree contraption they add to that so you can get 4 different meds by 4 different delivery systems – made from oil, and the technology came from the oilpatch.

And what about the very process of running a camera into an artery? That process originated in the oilfield, as well, if I’m not mistaken. These and numerous other medical advances were fueled by the injection of oilfield workers into another field, bringing their knowledge and can-do with them.

I could go on and on, forever. But I’ll leave you with this: When your future’s so bright you gotta wear shades, remember this - you wouldn’t be sporting that badass bling without the oil and gas industry. So next time you see your favorite oilfield worker, don’t trash them. Give them a hug.

And maybe even a pair of those bling bling shades.

Q&A From Texas Red (rerun)

2011-10-04T05:56:00.000-05:00

This is a repost from 2009…I thought it was pretty cool, so I'm going to reshare...

Texas Red flung an interview upon me. So, here goes the answers to her questions. And man. She went a little deeper than the most!

Her questions (and my answers) are as follows:

(1) When and why did you join the oilfield industry? Well. Hmmm. I didn’t join with any set purpose – kind of hard to believe now, huh? Oil and gas is a major industry in West Texas. I was raised an oilfield brat. And when a job came available as an office manager, I took the job. My son was 2 years old…so that was 26 years ago! My, how time flies when you’re having fun! I soon was promoted to sales, and promoted, and promoted and here I is. Even in it’s worst cyclical nightmare, I love the oilfield. It’s never boring, always changing, and full of awesome people.

(2) What does your typical weekday look like---posting on the blog; lots of phone calls; meetings; travel in the field, etc.?Mondays, I drop breakfast by a customer’s office by 7 a.m., then spend most of the morning on conference calls with my staff and fellow coworkers…starting at 9am, it’s the sales call; morphing into the 10 am accounts receivable call. Meanwhile, my friend Daniel comes and steals LaToya the Sequoia for her weekly carwash. Some Mondays, I’ll then go meet another oilfield salesperson at Starbucks to trade opportunities and information (that’s how this patch works, it’s all about networking.) At 11:30, I’ll be at a customer’s office to pick them up for lunch. After lunch, I spend most of the afternoon collecting invoices, fielding calls from consultants, making sales appointments for the rest of the week, and making sales calls. I leave the office around 6-6:30 p.m., and head to the house to free Zack the WonderDog from the confines of the backyard. Then we grab something to eat, do some laundry, and if I’m lucky, I’ll spend time reading blogs. And every once in a while, writing something of content and purpose. If I'm really motivated, I'll post ahead a couple of days. Tuesdays look totally different, but that’ll save for another Q&A session, right?

(3) What would you recommend for non-hunters trying to learn about/appreciate the sport? Go with someone! Tag along. Observe the hunter, preparing, planning. A hunter is patience personified. Watch the dogs work – it is a fine dance, one that becomes a finely executed ballet when the hunter works with his dog. It's beautiful. Learn to shoot, and connect with times of old – when hunting was an absolute must, in order to live. Hunting gets you “out” – out in the open, sunshine, cold, whatever. Know that it’s a glorious thing to be outside, in the wild, with the wild, and watching a fine dog do his work to his best ability. Watch TV shows. Learn about whichever hunting sport most intrigues you, and go to it! There are classes and hunters all around you, I promise. They may be quiet, but they’re there. And almost every hunter I’ve know has an excellence about them…a love for wildlife, and for the cycle of life. You’ll see. And you’re welcome to go with me, anytime. Any of y’all are welcome to go. Just tell me you want to, and it’ll be A. Done. Deal.

(4) What do you love most about West Texas? Lord, girl. The sunsets. The people. The weather and its inherent insanity. The oilfield. The farmers. Stock shows and rodeos. Blue skies. Pumpjacks on the horizon. Oil rigs, lit up like Christmas trees, when I'm landing on the flight from anywhere at Midland International Airport. But mostly, it's the people I love. The people are great, no matter their race, religion, or gender. I love the “try” in people…they just will not give up, and they are bound and determined to make their way in this beautiful desert land that is the frontier of West Texas. I’m one of them. There are a million awesome things about West Texas. Balmorhea. Goldsmith. Ft. Davis. Alpine. Midland. Stanton. Big Spring. Odessa. Forsan. Kermit. Coahoma. Each of them has their own drawing points. Okay, enough about the towns. But wait, one more thing about the West Texas towns…the best thing is they are all great places to raise your children. How about the colleges? Did you know most every child that graduates in Midland/Odessa has the chance to go to college for free with a little community service? Are we blessed, or what? Back to what I love most about West Texas, I cannot forget Scenic Mountain in Big Spring…I have cried my heart out on that mountain. When I was younger, and lived there…and after I moved to Midland, I would drive over. And when I came to the Lord, cried out, screamed, ranted to Him many times on Scenic Mountain. And He heard my cries. And then, I worshipped. It’s a special place to me., and to many others, as well. Go pay your $2 and check it out. There’s something awesome about that State Park…

(5) What was your motivation for starting this blog? I read blogs for about a year. And commented. Before that, I wrote stories about my life experiences, i.e., vacations with the boys, a work experience, something that happened with my mom, and would send these stories via e-mail to my customers. They loved them! They encouraged me to write, to try to publish. And though I’ve not yet gone that far, I won’t forget my first try at blogging. I loved, and love, the comraderie and friends I’ve made through blogging. If I were to stop writing tomorrow, I’d still stay in touch with my blog buddies. You and they are all part of my family now, if that makes any sense. So, in essence, I started for myself – but I stay,

because of y’all.

Hope you enjoyed that. If anyone else has any questions, please feel free to contact me. Like I said before, "I ain'ta skeered!" You may be bored to death, but I'll try to answer.

Going To the Dog Wash (sing it!)

2011-10-02T06:00:00.000-05:00

Somebody's Wonderdogs needed a bath last weekend.

And they got one, each…thanks to ThatManILove!

Zanna is so good about taking baths!

Zack doesn't like baths. He likes showers.

The Boy and Reg

2011-10-01T06:00:00.000-05:00

Thought I'd post some really neat pics of Brody's new Aussie pup, Reginald. Well, his real registered name is LaReginald Eugene Jackson-Freeman-Snipes. ~~Don't ask, I don't have a clue.~~ We were at the USTRC roping in Abilene.

Brody calls him "Reg".

Reg was sitting in the stands with us. When
he saw Brody, he jumped down and ran to the fence.

Totally happy when he's with his Brody.

Teaching him to ride on the saddle.

And to jump into his arms.

Three happy, happy beings.

Happy trails!

Real Life Between The Seeeeester-In-Loves

2011-09-30T05:51:00.000-05:00

Texts between my sister-in-love and myself:

Lisa: Do you know much about yours and Scott’s genealogy?

Me: Not really. Wilbur (our uncle) has done all the work on Mom’s side.

Me: Why?

Lisa: Looking to see if there is anything that will help Nick in college admissions.

Me: Hmmmmm. Other than his aunt is a rock star in her own mind?

Lisa: Yeah....couldn’t find a place for that one on here.

I love ThatLisaGirl. That girl flat cracks me up.

RuhRoh

2011-09-29T08:51:00.000-05:00

I'm traveling to yet another conference, and haven't been posting, but thought this was funny.

Divorce vs Murder

A nice, calm and respectable lady went into the pharmacy, walked up to the pharmacist, looked straight into his eyes, and said, "I'd like to buy some cyanide."

The pharmacist asked, "Why in the world do you need cyanide?" The lady replied, "I need it to poison my husband."

The pharmacist's eyes got big and he explained, "Lord have mercy! I can't give you cyanide to kill your husband, that's against the law? I'll lose my license! They'll throw both of us in jail! All kinds of bad things will happen. Absolutely not! You CANNOT have any cyanide!"

The lady reached into her purse and pulled out a picture of her husband in bed with the pharmacist's wife.

The pharmacist looked at the picture and said, "Well you didn't tell me you had a prescription.”

Ju Got Tween Seester In Beaumont?

2011-09-23T06:00:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, I flew to Houston. We have few flight options from beautiful Midland, so sometimes, you have to get creative to get the schedule you want. My options for leaving Midland in the morning in order to make a noon meeting?

Continental: Leave at 5:10 a.m., Arrive at 6:40 a.m. at IAH.

Ummm, no. Thank you.

Southwest: Leave at 8:40 a.m., Arrive at 10:00 a.m. at HOU.

Yes. Much better.

And then, I booked my return flight on Continental, which would be closer to our corporate office.

Since I was arriving 30 minutes from my destination, I decided to taxi to our office and forgo the car rental. Arranged with a coworker to drop me back off at IAH after our meeting.

And here, the story begins, in the taxi line at Hobby Airport.

Taxi Stand Worker: Where you go! WHERE YOU GO!!!

Me: Aldine Westfield

Taxi Stand Worker: You stay right here. RIGHT HERE!

Me: (I’ve not moved.)Yes, sir. (Dang. He needs a hug.)

Taxi Stand Worker: You! Get in taxi! GET IN! Get in! (Yanks open door.)

Me: Ummmm...thank you! (Clambering into mini van back seat, trying to hurry so I won’t get in any more trouble, which makes for, I’m sure, a beautiful sight.)

We drive off.

Me: Good morning!

Taxi Driver: Good morning. Where we go?

Me: Aldine Westfield, please.

Taxi Driver: Where is that? I no remember.

Me: (Oh, shit. Just my luck. In the one town that totally jacks me up direction-wise.) If I remember correctly, it’s off Hardy Toll Road around Rankin Rd. Not far from IAH.

Taxi Driver: Yes.

We drive off. I start breathing a little easier.

He gets out this white trash bag. Did I tell y’all he’s driving? We’re rocketing down Telephone Road and he’s unwrapping something out of this large, kitchen size white trash bag. Twisted at the top trash bag.

I’m starting to get a little nervous about what’s in that sucker.

And out he pulls.....his GPS.

Taxi Driver: Ju know address?

Me: Ummm, yes. 17015 Aldine Westfield.

Taxi Driver: (starts trying to turn on gps, weaving all over the road)

Me: (I guess a pre-trip safety meeting’s out of the question, since we’re already somewhere bound.) (Praying. Poof. Get wisdom.) Sir - would you like for me to operate the GPS so you can operate this moving vehicle?

Taxi Driver: If ju like.

Me: (smiling) (he does have my life in his hands, you know) I like.

I put in the address, and the screen flashes.

“Acquiring Satellites." And it never goes off.

Taxi Driver: I has problem with GPS thing.

Me: (Ya think?) I can get it on my phone, sir. Would you like me to do that?

Taxi Driver: I no have smart phone.

Me: (Dude. You might be lacking more than smart phone) I can get it, hang tight. Okay, I have it. You need to get on 610, then go to Hardy Toll Road.

Taxi Driver: Get on 45? Or 59? I no remember. Address familiar. Brain not working.

Me: (About that brain - ya think? It’s your town, dude! Can I get a rerun, back to the taxi stand? Or heck. Just stop at that Starbucks, I’ll hitchhike!) Aren’t we on 45 now?

Taxi Driver: Yes.

Me: Okay. (I start directing him to my destination)

Drive time: 20 minutes

Meter: Has jumped from $6.00 to $30 while I was looking up the destination for him, in within 1 minute. I’m beginning to get the BIG picture.

We finally reach Aldine Westfield road.

Taxi Driver: That ju building?

Me: No, sir. It’s a two story building, a huge complex. Takes up an entire block. It will be on the left hand side of the road.

Every building, he starts slowing down and trying to turn in. At every warehouse. He gets in every freaking left turn lane for about 2 miles, I swear.

Me: Sir. See that huge building about 4 blocks down? You can see it over the trees. That’s it.

Taxi Driver: Not this one?

Me: No sir. Look further ahead (pointing) at that one, with the big gray windows? (we’re getting closer) (if I get out I can walk from here)

Taxi Driver: Not this one?

Me: No sir, keep going, you’re doing good (flattery will get me anywhere).

After about 10 left turn lane fails, we drive further down the road, and we’re now almost on the same block as my destination.

Me: See that sign? You can turn in there.

Taxi Driver: Here?

Me: No!! There - at that circular drive.

Taxi Driver: Here?

Me: No, keep going just a bit.

Taxi Driver: Oh! Where the sign is!

Me: Yes, that’s it! (Soooo very grateful I’m alive)

I pay the fine, and tip him.

Taxi Driver: Bless ju, my friend. Ju so nice. Ju so pretteh. Ju got tween seester in Beaumont?

Me: (Need compliment? Tip well.) No, sir.

Taxi Driver: Ju sure? She could be seester.

Me: No, sir. Okay, sir, gotta go. Bless you! Have a great day!

Taxi Driver: Bless Ju!

Thankful to be alive, yet, I wonder if he’s driving off, chuckling, thinking (in perfect English, no doubt) “I so scammed that chick!”

The price you pay, eh?

It’s never boring around here!

Creativity For Hire

2011-09-22T06:00:00.003-05:00

We have a referral bonus drive going on at work.

For example, if I refer a person, and they make it through the gauntlet and actually get hired, I get a bonus.

So I did.

Refer a person.

And they got hired.

I’ve received notification, however, that I’m not going to get the bonus. Because the person that we hired forgot to put my name in the online application form.

I appealed their decision. Utilizing the logic that (1) the online app is hard and (2) not everyone is going to be able to 1-2-3 navigate that thing as easily as they suppose.

And then, like a good neighbor, I substantiated my claim via PrintScreen.

You see, the person had contacted me after hours, and I didn’t have my computer on me to walk them through “the process.”

So, I did it via my iPhone, on Facebook Chat. 1-2-3, every step. Included the job website. Told the person exactly what to do.

Oh, yes, I did.

And I had every one of the messages in my FB archive, thankfully, though through zero prior planning on my part. (Thank you, Facebook!) And I also happen to have the Print Screen function on my work computer (Thank you, Dell). And I also happen to know how to copy, paste into an email. (Thank you, me.)

I ran into the head HR person, in from Houston, yesterday. She looked at me, and grinned and we laughed about it. It was the first FB referral she’d seen.

I said, “Awww, c’mon. You don’t expect someone like me to follow the rules verbatim, do you? Little Miss Think Outside the Box?”

She told me she was going to have to take it to a higher power.

I thought, “I already did. God gave me the wisdom to do the Print Screen. And, send the text to y'all.”

But, I just smiled.

Because, you know....it’s never boring around here.

Stay Safe, My Wee Friends...

2011-09-21T06:00:00.000-05:00

I’ve fallen in love with hummingbirds.

And, as is my wont, I’m always a little late to the game. Late bloomer. Late to “get it”. Wearing bellbottoms 2 years after the fad has passed. The big black glasses, 3 years after the small oval John Lennon/John Denver cool specs were back in.

And the Bo Derek braids? What? They're not in style anymore? Dannnnnggggg.

Miss Johnny Come Lately, that's me.

So…back to this whine.

After asking questions of Mr. Google and Mrs. Facebook (you do know FB is a woman, right? Surely you know that! Have you ever seen a more over-intelligent, ~~hormonal, cantankerous, bitchy, snoopy~~ creature? FB is definitely female. I dare you to prove otherwise. And that Mark Zuckerberg is the creator means absolutely nothing.), I find I've rum amuck. Yup, at the tail-end of summer and well into fall, I realized that there are many reasons why I’m not seeing my sweet little hummingbirds.

My schedule.
The fact that I’ve had the same nectar in the feeders for months.
My schedule.
I don’t know how to look for hummingbirds.
My schedule.
Hummingbirds don’t like dogs.
My schedule.
My feeders smell badly and nectar is ruined.
My schedule.
My feeders were metal, probably not the best type.
My schedule.
Did I say my schedule?

I then fixed everything I knew to do, and started looking.

And voila! The hummingbirds appeared. So many that I didn’t want to go to work every day, and I rushed home as soon as I could afterwards. Now, I know, from watching them feed on my plants, they were here daily. But the feeders made the numbers increase so I was able to view them.

I can prove it.

But now? The numbers are lessening. They’re starting to migrate. Fly south, my friends, and be safe.

I’m going to miss you.

Please come back next year, my darlings! I’ll have a plethora of feeders and plants especially for you!

I promise.

Funny For Monday

2011-09-19T06:00:00.009-05:00

We did it.

We had our precious Zanna spayed last week. It’s the right thing to do - we can’t handle a dog pregnancy and puppies, with our schedule, and almost every day there is a hunting dog abandoned at the local pet shelter. We just didn’t want to contribute in any way.

ThatManILove says this is Zanna's sexy look.

We opted for the laser technique, which is supposed to be less painful in every way. Zanna seems to be doing well, a little shaky about jumping down from the bed, so we’re still giving her an assist when she gives us that “I’m helpless” look. We hate to see our girl in pain, but know it will pass and she’ll be back to herself soon.

I asked ThatManILove what it cost, and he said somewhere around a couple hundred.

I said, “Dang. We paid more than that for doggy diapers.” Which led me to remember this story, from last year. I repost it, again, for my faithful followers, who might need a laugh on this Monday.

From months ago...aka "the last time THAT happened." Argggggh!

Sunnnnyyyyyy beeeeeeaaaaaches.

Guess I’ll expound on the never boring adventures of the WonderDogs.

This morning, I’m getting ready, out of the shower, about to dry my hair. It’s about 6:20 a.m. The dogs ask to go out. As is our norm, I go out to the “almost oasis” of a back yard. (I love it in the morning!) I sit down on the porch, grab a water bottle, settle down to enjoy the beautiful morning, and let them do their business.

I’m soon to discover that it’s not to be that kind of morning. Zanna’s in the last stages of her heat cycle. ThatManILove and I have been in some serious discussions this week as to whether or not to breed Zanna, or to get her fixed. Let me take one second to note that TMIL has NOT been in town except on weekends during the last three weeks. I’ve been dealing with this heat cycle, the diapers, the panties, all that drill. It’s making me crazy. ThatManILove doesn’t want her stout championed bloodline to end; I, on the other hand, could care less about menstrual cycles any more, much less my Zanna’s.

Whatever romantic vision I had about being an awesome breeder of champion German Shorthairs has this very week faded away in a fluff of shredded cotton and denim. Zanna’s gone through more panty liners, doggie diapers, and puppy panties in three weeks than any woman I’ve ever known (however, that may be because most women I know don’t eat their sanitary products). I’m ready to put this madness to an end. Zack’s interest in her is at…well, let’s just say he’s peaked this morning. I’m not worried, though, because 3 years ago, we made him a sports model. Yup, we had him fixed.

I’m relaxing, drinking a glass of water, and all of a sudden, Zack starts acting kind of aggressive towards Zanna. And she’s, ummm….letting him. The little wench is even coming on to him. She’s flirting. And before I can say “You don’t have the stuff anymore, cowboy, don’t even think about it!” , Zack has mounted Zanna. Oh, yes, he has. You’ve heard “I’ve fallen and I can’t get up?” Well, he’s mounted, and he can’t get down. Or she can’t get loose. Or something.

I scream at him. Totally ineffective.

I run get the water hose. Same result.

I call ThatManILove. He doesn’t answer his cellphone.

So, I do what most warm-blooded over-intelligent females who are seeking answers to such a dilemma do. I run to the door, go inside, shut the back door so I don’t have to watch them do the dirty deed anymore, and go ask Mr. Google what the heck to do.

Turns out the first two things, screaming and water, only make situations such as this, worse. (Don’t say I never taught you anything.)

After I read the article twice, I decide to venture to the back door to peek out and see how things are hanging. Whew! They’re apart. Zanna’s giving me that, “Gee thanks, oh you human protector of all four legged things – you suck at this” look. I, in turn, am glaring at Zack, thinking, “You RAPIST!” I hustle them both into the house and kennel Zanna, pronto.

Then, and only then, does ThatManILove call.

“Hey, babe, did you need something?”

“Ummm, yeah, well, I did…but it’s all good now. Zack mounted Zanna.”

“What? He can’t do that.”

“Oh, yes he can, and he did. I was an eyewitness. And they got stuck.”

“What? Are you sure? I don’t think Zack can do anything.”

“I am not even gonna repeat it. Zanna’s been violated. Maybe even drugged.”

Silence.

And then I can hear him. He’s giggling. And then he starts laughing.

And that just pisses me off more.

“When did we get Zack fixed?” Yup. Still giggling.

And we figure it out. Two years ago.

And you know what he said to me then?

“Don’t worry baby. Semen doesn’t have that kind of shelf life.”

Sunday Citar

2011-09-18T09:15:00.000-05:00

Today, I'm joining in Fresh Mommy's Sunday Citar for my first time. To quote Tabitha,

"It's Sunday again that means it's time for one of my favorite things... Sunday Citar!! Here's where we all share a quote or two... a favorite, a new find, a laugh inducing or tear inducing quote you love this week. (Citar = to quote in Spanish)"

There is a place in you where there is perfect peace.
There is a place in you where nothing is impossible.
There is a place in you where the strength of God abides.

~A Course In Miracles

Peace,

Makes One Wonder

2011-09-17T21:45:00.000-05:00

I’ve not been diligent in writing every day.

I have, however, been diligent in working on all the events I have coming up soon. On top of my "real" job.

National Assn. of Drilling Engineers Meeting last Thursday in Bakersfield, CA
The Permian Basin AADE meeting last Tuesday
The West Coast AADE Shoot Friday
United Way Energy Committee training and meeting
My company’s customer appreciation sporting clay tournament next week, including ordering prizes, plaques, and assigning co-workers duties, not to mention sending out almost 1800 invitations, and then, the day after, the shoot for the local high school ROTC
Serving on a committee for the upcoming API Team Roping in October
A completions conference the same week as the shoot
Doing registration at the Southwest Oilmans Tennis Tourney
New Mexico Oil and Gas Conference, in Santa Fe, NM - including booking and changing hotel rooms, helping plan a golf tourney, a formal dinner, and a formal reception, and all that entails. This happens the last week in September/first week in October. I don’t even have a clue what I’m gonna wear yet.

No, I’m not an event planner, that’s all just in a day’s work in the oilpatch. And I had to skip a customer trip to Vegas because I was overwhelmed with this stuff.

So, when I went to the bathroom at my office Tuesday, and saw this, is it any wonder I started laughing and couldn’t stop? I mean, people, if the Funny Farm would have seen me, they probably would have certified me, put me in a straight jacket, and ferried me off. An evil, eerie, cackling, bwahahahaha issuing forth, all the way.

And if you're wondering, I have no idea why there is a Sara Lee bag hanging out of the napkin disposal in our corporate bathroom.

And I’m not even going to ask.

It’s never boring around here. And I can't make this sh** up. No way, no how.

Saturday, Finally! It's MY Day! Mine! All Mine!!

2011-09-10T17:28:00.001-05:00

Today, on a Saturday that’s supposed to be mine, all mine, I went and worked out. (Enter the pre-whine, you know, the one where I’m already starting to get sore, V’Lesha kicked my butt, etc.)

I went to get ThatManILove so we could deliver the jeep to get new tires at Discount Tire. He went to the tire store, and I was to meet him there with Starbucks. I drove to our local Starbucks, and it was so crowded the butt end of my Sequoia was sticking out into one of the busiest streets in Midland. And then three! (3)...yeah, one-two-three... different cars tried to hit me once I made it into the relative safety of the parking lot.

I felt more safe when the butt end of my car was sticking out into the busy street.

I decided to abandon ship and get the heck out of there - obviously those people needed caffiene way more than I.

I had a brain wave, went to Barnes and Nobles, and was in and out of there with our drinks in less than 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, did I tell you Discount Tire was closed...for a party? Don’t they know that I need tires? And right now? For a jeep that’s going to sit in the driveway for another week? Abandon that plan, regroup for Monday.

Okay, if this is how this Saturday’s going to go, I believe I'm going to need a redo.

We load up in one vehicle. Go to the post office, where we have to annually re-certify our identities to keep our post office box. And there, we mail a package of goodies to the beautiful god-daughter. When I get back into my truck, I realize I left out the coolest pair of tennis shoes!!

Off to Petsmart, for more doggy stuff. And then to Sam’s Club, to stock up on drinks and Clif Bars for a customer’s fitness walk coming up next weekend. I really start to feel the soreness kick in while I’m walking the aisles of Sam’s Club. I saw a recliner in an aisle and wanted to collapse in it. But I kept on keeping on. I never thought we were going to get this stuff loaded. I hope the customers will help me unload it, come Monday. Full count: 300 Gatorades and waters, 240 Clif Bars. I feel healthy - hope they do!

And then we stopped for lunch…at an establishment where the television was showing the 9-11 unveiling of the Memorial Wall for Flight 93. It was beautiful. And I cried. Couldn't finish lunch, thinking of how brave those souls were.

Okay. So now, back to MY weekend. Just MINE. You know, the one where I now ~~nap, relax, take a jacuzzi bath, drink a glass of ThatManILove's best wine~~ turn to the computer to input data for OUR taxes.

That would be me.

Wait. Is that the doorbell ringing? Grrrrrrr.

…to be continued.

Investing in the Future

2011-09-06T04:00:00.000-05:00

This summer, a college intern named Tunde moved in with us...and quickly crept into our hearts.

Tunde was so grateful for the job we found him...and he worked hard to prove himself, at work, and here at the house.

He wouldn’t let us do anything around the house. He pitched in, 200%, wherever he thought he was needed. He took nothing for granted.

Tunde made a hand at his job, as did the other engineering student that was placed there - the owners and managers can’t say enough about their interns. It was their first intern program, and these guys did so well that it is the company's intent to formulate an ongoing intern program.

We had so much fun with Tunde. When he was here (he was always working!), he was asking questions about the job he had done that day, the industry, and things concerning his chosen line of petroleum engineering. We nicknamed him "the sponge" because he couldn't soak up enough information about our oilfield and the energy industry. When he left to go back to school, I'm pretty sure ThatManILove and I felt the empty-nest syndrome all over again!

Tunde and one of his classmates, Alex, flew back “home” for the Labor Day weekend. We ate out, went hunting, grilled, went to the movies, and just chilled. It was great to see them both again.

Late yesterday afternoon, we surprised Tunde.

ThatManILove called him to the table after supper, and showed him how we password protect our electronics. And then, he asked Tunde to put in his personal password...in his own brand new Toshiba laptop.

I thought all of us were going to cry, but in the end, I think it was only me. Well, it might not have been, but do you think I’d tell on two grown men?

Oh, Hummingbirds...Come Hither

2011-09-03T07:43:00.001-05:00

I have plants (amazingly, they're still alive in this horrible heat) that draw hummingbirds.

To bring my little friends in, I also have hummingbird feeders. I have them all over the outside perimeter of my house.

I have all sorts of hummingbird feeders, all over!

I love the feeders, and I love hummingbirds. In the limited times I've been home lately, I've seen three different types of hummingbirds.

But this one feeder, under this plant? This is the one they like the most. They have two feeders, adjacent to this one, and they will swarm this particular feeder. I wish I could remember where I got it!

They like this plant, which is way across the patio from the feeders. And it's almost reached the end of it's season.

This little dew plant? The hummingbirds love it. I have four of these plants. Three of them bloom profusely, one not so much. They buzz all around these dew plants. I'm glad - the plants are one of my favorites and I bring them back every year.

I have no idea what this plant is, but I love the little flowers. They are trailing down from the hanging baskets and are beautiful. It's the end of the summer, and they've just now started really growing. Gorgeous.

I guess I'll just hang out this morning and wait on my little friends to show.

Sharing with Weekend Flowers. Go see! Beautiful flowers, there!

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner

2011-08-31T06:00:00.004-05:00

Last Friday found me at the Bustin’ Clay for United Way, which benefits United Way of Midland, Texas.

I worked alongside a team of great people most of Thursday, and from daylight to dusk Friday, to host a fun, productive shoot. We raised close to $200K, which is our biggest take yet. It was so much fun seeing everyone. Our town is one of those that makes raising money fun. We give away lots of good stuff.

And sometimes, ya know, it’s just your day to win. And win, I did.

A Sig Sauer 1911 .45 caliber pistol.

Now, I’ve just got to learn how to shoot it!!

I won another gun, as well, but donated it back, and it ended up going to a young man that had just returned from serving our country in Afghanistan. Before the gun drawing, we had asked him to stand up and be recognized, and he received a standing ovation. Beautiful.

Of everyone that was there, our young veteran deserved to win. I'm glad he did.

Let's go shoot some targets, compadre! I gotta figure this gun out!

It's never boring around here!!

Early Morning View from My Chair

2011-08-30T08:02:00.001-05:00

For those of you who kindly commented on the loss of my son's cowdog, Hud - we thank you. Hud was an amazing pup and he will be greatly missed. Per an earlier arrangement with the Parnells at Hudson Ridge Aussies, ElderSon will today pick up Hud's half brother, Sam. Though the pups won't be raised together as was originally designed, I'm hoping Sam will be a big help in healing my son's heart. Thank you so much for your caring comments. Hud was featured on this post, in a set of amazing photographs taken by Craig Kelley of Not So Serious Productions.

I think I’ll show you part of my everyday routine.

Fade to an early morning moment at Casa de Crazy...

Ever watchful, Zack The Wonder Dog.

The Wonderdogs. After their early morning perimeter check of the yard, having successfully vanquished all the pesky squirrels, and people walking their golden retrievers down our alley.

No squirrel will sneak upon Zanna the Wonderdog. Isn't gonna happen.

They rest. Always watchful, yet, they rest.

Have a beautiful morning!

Dogs Working Cattle - A Beautiful Sight

2011-08-28T08:26:00.001-05:00

Elder Son sent me a link to some photographs taken by Craig Kelley of Not So Serious Productions. These photographs are amazing, of the cowboys gathering cattle, the cowboys and horses working together, and the dogs doing what they are bred to do - their jobs. It is nothing less than an intricate dance, and beautiful, at that.

If you’ll get to page 5, the photos of the actual cattle works will start, and in there, you’ll see some awesome pictures of Elder Son and his baby Australian Shepherd pup, Hud*.

ThatManILove and I have watched this slideshow over and over - there is nothing more beautiful than seeing a dog, doing what he’s been bred to do.

This little fellow is 6-7 months old, and watch him work. He’s one happy pup.

Click here to see the amazing photojournalist Craig Kelley's photos of the Gleghorn Gail Gathering. Enjoy!

*Update: Friday night, my son's wonderful Hud was tragically killed. Our son is heartbroken, as are we.

Give Me Snow, Lotsa Snow, Underneath the Skies Above, Don't Heat Me Up

2011-08-26T06:35:00.000-05:00

I have decided I have a heat allergy.

I can’t take it anymore.

I don’t know if I’m getting older (duh) and less tolerant (more duh) but it seems like it’s been over 100 degrees for about 90 days. It could be hormonal (super duh), it doesn’t matter, it’s the heat that gets to me.

And I’m so freakin' done with it.

When we returned from the cool of Alaska, we took our CHL class. It was 108 degrees. We were in a caliche pit. And guess what?

I suffered from heat exhaustion, and almost didn’t finish my class. For days after, I lay prone on the bed. Trying to rehydrate. Trying to get rid of a super-hangover style headache. Finally, I decided to live again.

This last Friday, we shot at the Dallas Gun Club. In 107 degree weather. And I felt like I was just minutes from having a relapse. I stayed hydrated all day, but Thank GOD ThatManILove was with me. He started recognizing the signs (I didn't hit a clay for 2 stations), and from somewhere, got an iced towel and made me put it around my neck. This started cooling me off.

So, now, I’ve made a difficult decision. I’m not going to shoot or do anything in high temperature weather. I’ve lost weight, I’m getting more fit by the day, but somehow, my tolerance for high temperatures is waning. I've been living at the snow cone stand all summer.

Friday, we have our “Bustin’ Clays For United Way” shoot. This is a shoot that is near and dear to my heart, as I was one of the founding mothers of this baby. And I’ve shot in it every year since it’s inception.

But this year, I will be inside, helping at registration.

I just can’t do it anymore.

So, I have one thing to say: Anyone up for a winter sporting clay competition? I’m in - because right now, baby, I'd welcome snow.

The Contest Winners for What The Heck? A Janie Girl Contest

2011-08-25T06:00:00.000-05:00

The contest!!!

I forgot about the What The Heck? A Janie Girl Contest!

Yup, that one.

Where there were weird thingies on this green fence of a significantly popular drive-through.

And said weird thingies were exactly one. car. length. apart.

And whomsoever puts said thingies on the green fence are (1) pretty accurate and (2) keep a pretty good arsenal.

First place prize goes to : TexWisGirl at the Run-A-Round Ranch

Second place: Connie at Hartwood Roses

Third place: Betty at Bossy Betty

Fourth place: KaLynn (MiMi) of both KaLynn Blog and Mimi's Musings (yup, the girl's a multitasking, two-blog woman!)

Fifth place: Nancy at A Rural Journal

So! Y’all let me know your favorite store, because you’re getting gift certificates from there.

Congratulations, y’all!!!

Oh, yeah...and the correct answer?

SPITWADS.

At the drive-in line at our local STARBUCKS. Oh, yeah. Exactly one car length apart.

Now think about this. Some kid (or kids) sitting in the back seat of his parents’ car, amassing over time some serious pieces of paper, wadded up just so, small enough to fit into a straw, which he/she happened to have handy in that back seat, to be able to decorate a fence with spitwads, whenever said parent had a cravin’ for Starbucks.

How many repetitive days?

What was the parent doing? Not paying attention to what their kid was doing?

Never looking in the back seat at the source of the ammunition?

All sorts of scenarios come to mind, but I’m not going to go there.

By the way...after the original post, Starbucks cleaned the fence.

Oh, yeah - and Rob-Bear? You of Bears Noting? You get a giftcard, too, for reminding me that I’d not yet posted the winners to the contest! Thanks so much!

Tuesday Randomness

2011-08-23T06:58:00.000-05:00

It’s 6:44 a.m., I’m on the back porch, awaiting this sunrise and writing this profound post that you’re currently reading. When the sun rises, the squirrels will come out, and the daily morning saga between the Wonderdogs and the Squirrels will begin. Come watch!
We worked on my upper body and arms at the gym this morning. (Notice the “We” worked on Me? That’s how it goes, V’Lesha is a taskmaster, but the language of it all makes me giggle.) I’m gonna be whining tomorrow!
ThatManILove starts a new gig this week, and he’s excited about it. Me, too!
We dined at the Petroleum Club last night with customers and co-workers. Prime Rib Monday is definitely a good thing. We’ll be back!
I just realized that out of the last week, I’ve not had one day that I wasn’t entertaining customers. Do salespeople ever get a day off?
I sprung my Wonderdogs out of Doggie Day Care yesterday and my bill was over $500 just for the last two weeks of travel. I almost swallowed my tongue. Wonder if I can get my employer to pay for that? I can see Doggie Day Care as an expensed item...can’t you?
This morning when I went to the gym it was already 74 degrees at 4:49 a.m. Something about that just isn’t right. But one thing I know - the sky will be beautiful. Even with all those ripply heat waves emanating from the ground, the West Texas Sky is gorgeous.
I must rise from my comfy chair and attack my day. People to see, places to be! Have an awesome day, my gentle readers!
PS - Enjoy this photo of my sweet goddaughter, Ada! She found plenty to explore in our hotel room during her visit!

Scan This!

2011-08-22T05:22:00.003-05:00

Waiting in line for our table at brunch Saturday morning in the Metroplex, and I turned around to view the people.

And had to ask permission to take a picture.

Janie: What does the code stand for?

Unidentified man: It's the UPC for my favorite beer.

Janie: Oh.

What else could I say to that?

It's never boring around here!

Suck Me In

2011-08-21T07:27:00.000-05:00

Thursday evening, we dined with friends.

And I had to go to the ladies' room.

I was tired, been driving all day, and then went to the pre-shoot at 108 degrees. Then, we met our friends at our hotel.

Needless to say, I was so tired, I wasn't all there.

So when I saw this, I freaked.

And then, I remembered. I'm at Saltgrass Steak House. They do this in all their bathrooms...the going out door says Mens, if you're in the Ladies; and Ladies, if you're in the Mens. They like to mess with people's minds.

It works, even when you've not been drinking.

People Are Funny

2011-08-19T10:01:00.001-05:00

Sign, posted by the front door at our office.

Stuff like this makes me put 100% of my faith in humanity. As opposed to the myriad of safety training I've received.

Shhhhhrrrrrreeeeeddddddd. Ded.

2011-08-18T02:12:00.003-05:00

He's gonna kill me.

But - I couldn't resist. And he did let me take the picture, so that's some type of implied consent, right?
He even looked at it and made me retake it.

The other morning, ThatManILove took a shower, grabbed a pair of underwear from the stack, and put them on.

I heard him say, "These feel weird."

I turned around, laughed, and of course, as all good wifeys do, I grabbed the camera.

Zanna the Wonderdog LOVES anything ThatManILove. She's addicted. To his stuff, and to shredding.

The even weirder thing? That Martha, the lady who helps us clean and do laundry, folded these suckers and put them in his underwear drawer. SURELY she recognized they weren't "quite right"...

It's never boring around here!

I Thought I Thaw a Puddytat! I Did! I Did!

2011-08-17T05:14:00.000-05:00

I stayed with my friends, the Applegaths, this week in Pennsylvania.

And they’ve a new houseguest since I was last there. Dropped at a very young 4-5 weeks of age, by a hawk, on their back deck.

A calico cat, with more personality than any I’ve ever seen. She has NO idea she's a cat. She fetches. She arches and hisses at the least provocation.

She hides under a blanket.

And she’s a guard cat.

She’s too funny, and made me laugh more times than I can count!

Homeward Bound

2011-08-15T07:38:00.000-05:00

Hi, y'all!

It's been a while since I posted, or it FEELS that way, anyway!

I'm in Pennsylvania as I write this, packing up my stuff to leave my good friends' house. It's been a beautiful stay. I was productive in the work portion, and in the work/play portion (the AADE Appalachian Blast) and in the chill portion (hanging out with my friends!).

The weather and scenery have been beautiful, I met a lot of new people and potential clients, and oh, my Lord, it rained. I know it might not be raining at home, but the rain here was so refreshing to me. I could just stay out in it all day long! And I haven't seen so much green in I don't know when.

I'll take some scenery pix today as I travel en route to the airport.

Some funny things have happened in a week, and I'll be writing about them. For now, though, I must go pack and ready myself for the trip back home to ThatManILove and my Wonderdogs.

I'll be home a day and a half, then it's off to DFW for the DFW AADE Sporting Clay Shoot, where ElderSon might join me!

It's never boring around here!

See ya in 1542 miles! Plant Love today, will ya?

Strawberry June Cleaver Nirvana-Ness

2011-08-12T06:00:00.000-05:00

A month or so ago, I received a package in the mail.

I was so excited! It was from Holly at June Cleaver Nirvana.

Somehow, with all her charisma and chutzpah, she had arranged for the California Strawberry Commission to make a visit to she and twenty other bloggers in Dallas, Texas!

They were treated to strawberry soup, sandwiches, tacos and sliders while sipping on strawberry cocktails.

What a cool thing! Go look at all her strawberry scrumptiousness here!

And, you know what? She sent me some goodies just for commenting on her strawberry-ness!

Here they are...I’m gonna try some of these recipes pronto!!

This is a cool little strawberry bag!

And the cookbook!

A cute little strawberry sticker...

And this book - 101 Optimal Life Foods

And a sweet note from Holly herself!

We're kind of strawberry freaks around here anyway - thank God for the local HEB, which usually carries some lovely strawberries. We love their fruit/veggie section!

And as to the "101 Optimal Life Foods" book by David Grotto? Well, we're all over that! We love eating healthy.

And from an oilfield gal that used to think breakfast consisted of Cool Ranch Doritos and Dr. Pepper, hey, I'm doing well in my transition!

Holly, thanks so much for my gifts - and I love love love your blog!

Perfect Novel Start for a Romantic Woman Who....Oh, Snap. Wait.

2011-08-10T06:00:00.007-05:00

He grasped me firmly, but gently, just above my elbow, and guided me into a room, his room.

Then he quietly shut the door and we were alone.

He approached me soundlessly, from behind, and spoke in a low, reassuring voice close to my ear.

"Just relax."

Without warning, he reached down and I felt his strong, calloused hands start at my ankles, gently probing, and moving upward along my calves, slowly but steadily. My breath caught in my throat.

I knew I should be afraid, but somehow I didn't care. His touch was so experienced, so sure. When his hands moved up onto my thighs, I gave a slight shudder, and partly closed my eyes. My pulse was pounding. I felt his knowing fingers caress my abdomen, my ribcage.

And then, as he cupped my firm, full breasts in his hands, I inhaled sharply.

Probing, searching, knowing what he wanted, he brought his hands to my shoulders, slid them down my tingling spine to my panties.

Although I knew nothing about this man, I felt oddly trusting and expectant. This is a man, I thought. A man used to taking charge. A man not used to taking 'No' for an answer. A man who would tell me what he wanted. A man who would look into my soul and say...

"Okay ma'am, you can board your flight now."

Here's another funny:

TSA's holy pat-down - Air Travel Political and Editorial Cartoons - The Week

Silent Sunday - Baby Bump Shoot

2011-08-07T07:05:00.001-05:00

Shots from yesterday's baby bump photo session. Micah and Janice are the sweetest couple, we had so much fun!

I suggested we go to this bridge and they looked at each other and smiled. This was the scene of their engagement. I had no idea!

This was FUN! I put the little stickers on the baby bump, and Mom and Dad did the art work. Cool, huh?