Here's the long due pictures!
They're not ALL of the photos, but they're some of my favorites. Hope you enjoy!
They're not ALL of the photos, but they're some of my favorites. Hope you enjoy!
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Monday, April 11, 2011
Tennessee Day 9 and 10
Saturday, April 9th.
Got up early (well, seven) so I could shower and get clean. We were due to leave around (duhhh) 11. Poked and prodded Lee and got him to get ready. Took him ages, as usual! Soon enough Penny honked and off we were heading to Lake Winnepesaukah. Fairly uneventful drive, had this guy on a motorcycle following us. Bandanna on his face, his chick had a helmet with spikes on it. The drive wasn't too far, I think we entered Georgia too. Pretty enough drive.
Stood in line for awhile at Lake Winnie. Since we arrived only a half hour after they opened and it was the 2nd day they were even open. Penny and Eddy went off somewhere else, not the thrill-ride kinda people.
A nice lady in front of us let me 'steal' some sunscreen, which was really cool of her :)
Once across the gate, I B-lined to the back where the roller coaster was. We rode on one of those tight turn ones, where every turn I got totally squished by Lee. Not so fun, but it was his first time on a ride like that. So that wasn't bad! Though this one had the lap-bar problem, where I couldn't get it low enough to feel safe.
I think we did another ride before then, but the only real roller coaster they had was the Cannon Ball. Fun wooden roller coaster, went on that twice. First time wasn't the best since size wise, Lee and I are very very different and I couldn't really get the secure feeling with him keeping bars out of my lap. Got elbowed in the face once, and almost bashed two more times, making me snap at him. I felt bad, but... shouldn't you be organized BEFORE you get in the coaster seat? Oh well. It was his first time clearly, so I tried to take it easy and school him a bit. Lee liked to sit on the ride once it stopped to gather himself back together, I told him you get off THEN do that!
Went on a spinny one, I quite enjoyed it, Lee sat to re-gather himself again. Then went on a airplane one, where I was INCREDIBLY grateful he wasn't there with me. For one, he got stuck upsidown on his, and for two, that lap bar was the only thing keeping me from falling all over the place and getting in to a horrible death spin. Fun little airplane ride, could've sucked.
Umm, I think after that we hopped on this caravan ride that goes in circles (think the pirate ship, but in full circles). Over-weighted the ride and it couldn't get off. So he and I hopped off as part of the 4 that had to step off. Sadly someone who got to ride the ride, threw up. So we waited in line for awhile. Hopped on eventually and got our turn! Lee had his eyes closed and didn't look to good. Ummm, after that we hopped on the Ski-lift and took a little tour of the park. Felt kinda bad as he was almost the maximum weight. I hate ski-lift rides. I have this horrible fear of the cable snapping. Probably the only rides that jerk my stomach.
We got icecream once down, munching on that then he played some of the games. Tried to win a Domo but missed. hehe.
next ride was the magic carpet, which is one of those that spin so fast you stick to the wall. Again Lee's eyes were closed.
After that (ish?) we went to the "evil ride". The swinging ship. I told Lee that everyone gets sick on this, he shouldn't go, asked him if he was sure, and we loaded up. took off....and he threw up.
People in front of us were cowering in front of me, I just turned my head and felt sick. I don't do well with the sight of vomit. Not to mention smell.
People behind us were all "omg". Once the ride stopped, he threw up again. The lap-bar was being held down by his belly, so the constant pressure couldn't do well. Feeling sick enough already, I wormed out before he got the bar lifted (with vomit on it!) and hopped around to get back to his side and not be trapped in the seat. Once he was done the worker got him some paper towels. Poor guy had it all over him. I stole his public vomiting virginity. :(
Main thing I was bummed about was I leave in the morning, and his vomit got on my water bottle.
Erk >,>
We got off that, and I took him to the bathroom where he got cleaned up and washed off as much stuff as he could. Requesting to sit down, we happened to be near a pavilion complete with fans. Upstairs we went and he sat. I asked if I could get him anything, he wanted cold water. I beat him up and stole some money, went downstairs and got two bottles of water and two cups of ice. He seemed a bit better once that was in. At least all he threw up was icecream. We took a little walk over to the mist machines and cooled off. Called Penny to come get us and headed back out of the park. He laid in the shade as I hung out by the parking lot to keep an eye out for them. Picked us up, stopped at wal-greens and got him some soda. Lee likes his dark soda, but light soda is better on the stomach. Convinced him a couple times on this holiday to stick with the lighter stuff. Got him 7up inside, and myself some cream soda. Oh, to my credit, I DID eat breakfast. Just don't remember what it was.
Took the scenic drive home, which was amazingly beautiful. Lookout Mountain is so pretty. I'd retire there :)
So many nice buildings, so many horse properties, just <3
Got home and Lee got changed. Ruby and Mamwa were dressed up so I threw on my dress. We were going out to a fancy restaurant tonight. Eventually we left, Lee fussed over how pretty I was in a dress. Made me feel really nice.
Once there, I got sweet tea. They served not-bad pita bread. I ordered a Steak, as did Eddy. but there was only one left, and he gave it to me <3
Eddy and I got served first, and he went to dig in. Remembering my manners I waited politely. Penny "ahem"ed at her husband and got him to stop. Once everyone was served, I inhaled it XD
There was a wedding going on upstairs, quite cute.
Dinner was delicious! I think everyone enjoyed what they got. We'd gone to Blue Orchid Bistro. Cozy little (pricey) place. Waitress commented that she didn't think a 'tiny' girl like me could eat all my steak. I actually cleared my plate! 4 stocks of asparagus, mashed potatoes and my steak. Yum! Lee cleared his plate too, despite thinking he'd not be hungry. :)
Once home I snapped a (bad) picture of Mamwa, Ruby, Lee with Ginger, and Eddy with Penny. I'm pleased enough, at least I got a picture of all them!
Went to bed a few minutes later, packing up the rest the way and crashing. I slept horribly and was up around 3am. Got up for my shower at 3:50 (alarm was set to 4) and out by 4:15. My ride was due at 5 and late (poked lee, he got his shower). I admit I stress about my rides being on time. But I don't remember how far the airport is. My plane boards at 6:29 and it takes an hour to get there...and I didn't see him by 5:10. Called, and he came. We got there in great time, flew through the little security check point (with no line!) and chatted a bit with the security guards. Headed to my gate and waited. Helped people find their gate since they only had times and Atlanta posted.
Eventually got on board, had my bag in the side compartment and we took off! Destination time was about 64 minutes to landing. Detroit had bad weather though, and my flight got rerouted to Dayton. Landed, got gas, got some work done, and took off. Landed in Detroit at 11:08 and my flight there boarded at 11:30. Got off quickly, got my bag, and ran through the airport. I landed at C gate (far, mile long, blah blah blah) and hoofed it all the way to the A gate (as far away as possible). I didn't have time to fiddle with their tram system. Got there as they were beginning to board, called mom. Let her know I got there on time, and got on the plane.
They ended up holding there for an additional ten minutes so others who got delayed could catch the flight. So my running wasn't necessary.
Flight to Denver wasn't to bad. A fair bit of turbulence. Landing was scary, as we were getting some pretty nasty cross winds. One side of the plane (wheels) landed first, then the others hit the ground roughly and bounced a bit. The lady next to me screamed and jumped, arms flying out to brace herself. We pulled up to the gate, scooted out, I hopped on the tram and went upstairs where mom was waiting :)
Hugs! Love cookies and some mixed nuts were waiting for me in the car. And water, delicious cold water!
We went and ate at Jack in the box. My tongue was burnt from coffee I bought in Chattanooga so enjoying it fully was a bit hard.
tasty anyway! Then we headed home. Having previously stopped at Hancock fabrics, which were out of the elastic I buy. Rawr! Oh well. Saw two plumes of smoke, one from the fire I knew about, another from a fire mom and I knew nothing about. The drive home was fine, and I was SO glad to be home when I got there.
Pictures will be up tomorrow in their own post ~
Till next time? :)
Got up early (well, seven) so I could shower and get clean. We were due to leave around (duhhh) 11. Poked and prodded Lee and got him to get ready. Took him ages, as usual! Soon enough Penny honked and off we were heading to Lake Winnepesaukah. Fairly uneventful drive, had this guy on a motorcycle following us. Bandanna on his face, his chick had a helmet with spikes on it. The drive wasn't too far, I think we entered Georgia too. Pretty enough drive.
Stood in line for awhile at Lake Winnie. Since we arrived only a half hour after they opened and it was the 2nd day they were even open. Penny and Eddy went off somewhere else, not the thrill-ride kinda people.
A nice lady in front of us let me 'steal' some sunscreen, which was really cool of her :)
Once across the gate, I B-lined to the back where the roller coaster was. We rode on one of those tight turn ones, where every turn I got totally squished by Lee. Not so fun, but it was his first time on a ride like that. So that wasn't bad! Though this one had the lap-bar problem, where I couldn't get it low enough to feel safe.
I think we did another ride before then, but the only real roller coaster they had was the Cannon Ball. Fun wooden roller coaster, went on that twice. First time wasn't the best since size wise, Lee and I are very very different and I couldn't really get the secure feeling with him keeping bars out of my lap. Got elbowed in the face once, and almost bashed two more times, making me snap at him. I felt bad, but... shouldn't you be organized BEFORE you get in the coaster seat? Oh well. It was his first time clearly, so I tried to take it easy and school him a bit. Lee liked to sit on the ride once it stopped to gather himself back together, I told him you get off THEN do that!
Went on a spinny one, I quite enjoyed it, Lee sat to re-gather himself again. Then went on a airplane one, where I was INCREDIBLY grateful he wasn't there with me. For one, he got stuck upsidown on his, and for two, that lap bar was the only thing keeping me from falling all over the place and getting in to a horrible death spin. Fun little airplane ride, could've sucked.
Umm, I think after that we hopped on this caravan ride that goes in circles (think the pirate ship, but in full circles). Over-weighted the ride and it couldn't get off. So he and I hopped off as part of the 4 that had to step off. Sadly someone who got to ride the ride, threw up. So we waited in line for awhile. Hopped on eventually and got our turn! Lee had his eyes closed and didn't look to good. Ummm, after that we hopped on the Ski-lift and took a little tour of the park. Felt kinda bad as he was almost the maximum weight. I hate ski-lift rides. I have this horrible fear of the cable snapping. Probably the only rides that jerk my stomach.
We got icecream once down, munching on that then he played some of the games. Tried to win a Domo but missed. hehe.
next ride was the magic carpet, which is one of those that spin so fast you stick to the wall. Again Lee's eyes were closed.
After that (ish?) we went to the "evil ride". The swinging ship. I told Lee that everyone gets sick on this, he shouldn't go, asked him if he was sure, and we loaded up. took off....and he threw up.
People in front of us were cowering in front of me, I just turned my head and felt sick. I don't do well with the sight of vomit. Not to mention smell.
People behind us were all "omg". Once the ride stopped, he threw up again. The lap-bar was being held down by his belly, so the constant pressure couldn't do well. Feeling sick enough already, I wormed out before he got the bar lifted (with vomit on it!) and hopped around to get back to his side and not be trapped in the seat. Once he was done the worker got him some paper towels. Poor guy had it all over him. I stole his public vomiting virginity. :(
Main thing I was bummed about was I leave in the morning, and his vomit got on my water bottle.
Erk >,>
We got off that, and I took him to the bathroom where he got cleaned up and washed off as much stuff as he could. Requesting to sit down, we happened to be near a pavilion complete with fans. Upstairs we went and he sat. I asked if I could get him anything, he wanted cold water. I beat him up and stole some money, went downstairs and got two bottles of water and two cups of ice. He seemed a bit better once that was in. At least all he threw up was icecream. We took a little walk over to the mist machines and cooled off. Called Penny to come get us and headed back out of the park. He laid in the shade as I hung out by the parking lot to keep an eye out for them. Picked us up, stopped at wal-greens and got him some soda. Lee likes his dark soda, but light soda is better on the stomach. Convinced him a couple times on this holiday to stick with the lighter stuff. Got him 7up inside, and myself some cream soda. Oh, to my credit, I DID eat breakfast. Just don't remember what it was.
Took the scenic drive home, which was amazingly beautiful. Lookout Mountain is so pretty. I'd retire there :)
So many nice buildings, so many horse properties, just <3
Got home and Lee got changed. Ruby and Mamwa were dressed up so I threw on my dress. We were going out to a fancy restaurant tonight. Eventually we left, Lee fussed over how pretty I was in a dress. Made me feel really nice.
Once there, I got sweet tea. They served not-bad pita bread. I ordered a Steak, as did Eddy. but there was only one left, and he gave it to me <3
Eddy and I got served first, and he went to dig in. Remembering my manners I waited politely. Penny "ahem"ed at her husband and got him to stop. Once everyone was served, I inhaled it XD
There was a wedding going on upstairs, quite cute.
Dinner was delicious! I think everyone enjoyed what they got. We'd gone to Blue Orchid Bistro. Cozy little (pricey) place. Waitress commented that she didn't think a 'tiny' girl like me could eat all my steak. I actually cleared my plate! 4 stocks of asparagus, mashed potatoes and my steak. Yum! Lee cleared his plate too, despite thinking he'd not be hungry. :)
Once home I snapped a (bad) picture of Mamwa, Ruby, Lee with Ginger, and Eddy with Penny. I'm pleased enough, at least I got a picture of all them!
Went to bed a few minutes later, packing up the rest the way and crashing. I slept horribly and was up around 3am. Got up for my shower at 3:50 (alarm was set to 4) and out by 4:15. My ride was due at 5 and late (poked lee, he got his shower). I admit I stress about my rides being on time. But I don't remember how far the airport is. My plane boards at 6:29 and it takes an hour to get there...and I didn't see him by 5:10. Called, and he came. We got there in great time, flew through the little security check point (with no line!) and chatted a bit with the security guards. Headed to my gate and waited. Helped people find their gate since they only had times and Atlanta posted.
Eventually got on board, had my bag in the side compartment and we took off! Destination time was about 64 minutes to landing. Detroit had bad weather though, and my flight got rerouted to Dayton. Landed, got gas, got some work done, and took off. Landed in Detroit at 11:08 and my flight there boarded at 11:30. Got off quickly, got my bag, and ran through the airport. I landed at C gate (far, mile long, blah blah blah) and hoofed it all the way to the A gate (as far away as possible). I didn't have time to fiddle with their tram system. Got there as they were beginning to board, called mom. Let her know I got there on time, and got on the plane.
They ended up holding there for an additional ten minutes so others who got delayed could catch the flight. So my running wasn't necessary.
Flight to Denver wasn't to bad. A fair bit of turbulence. Landing was scary, as we were getting some pretty nasty cross winds. One side of the plane (wheels) landed first, then the others hit the ground roughly and bounced a bit. The lady next to me screamed and jumped, arms flying out to brace herself. We pulled up to the gate, scooted out, I hopped on the tram and went upstairs where mom was waiting :)
Hugs! Love cookies and some mixed nuts were waiting for me in the car. And water, delicious cold water!
We went and ate at Jack in the box. My tongue was burnt from coffee I bought in Chattanooga so enjoying it fully was a bit hard.
tasty anyway! Then we headed home. Having previously stopped at Hancock fabrics, which were out of the elastic I buy. Rawr! Oh well. Saw two plumes of smoke, one from the fire I knew about, another from a fire mom and I knew nothing about. The drive home was fine, and I was SO glad to be home when I got there.
Pictures will be up tomorrow in their own post ~
Till next time? :)
- Current Location:Home, Colorado
Friday, April 8, 2011
Tennessee Day 8
There's a bunch of NOTHING going on today. Cousin Dan had to cancel due to a headache.
Lee's grumpy and antisocial with a headache and being lazy. I was invited to watch him make a shelf but... with all the wasps and lack of things to watch I decided to come back to the house.
Breakfast was poptars, lunch was leftovers. Not so good reheated rolls, reheated hamburger noodle stuff and a fruit cup. Lee ate all my cherry fruit cups (bought me what? 12 of these things? I've had 4...) ah well. Shoulda laid claim to them if I wanted them.
Looking forward to sunday. Even if it's an early day I can't wait to be home. Weather at home is looking crappy but... HOME! I don't think I'd have such an issue with staying here if I could rotate families or hosts. Ruby and Mamwa are wonderful ladies but can't quite keep up with the conversations I like to have. Which is darned fine if you ask me! They earned it, being as old as they are. But really it's hard to hold proper conversations and discussions here. They all either turn in to a debate or you have to repeat yourself five times to get the topic across... and that's not to the older ladies...
Weather wise it's hot and muggy, lots of bugs out, the wind's fairly active. Rained a bit earlier so now it's just wet and hot and muggy. Hoping the clouds will dump some proper rain on us and be done with it by tomorrow. Lee wants to hike, my hip is still aching. Leading me to believe it's NOT the hike that did it.
Sunburn is peeling...
Almost everything in this house is slightly crooked. Lee said that it's because they had the garden around the house watered so much, the foundation shifted. Pretty crazy huh?
I'm not looking forward to re-packing...
Last night we watched "The Mummy" 3. ehhh..other two were way better.
So yeah, that's pretty much it. I'm going to roll over and sleep. Maybe kill this bug I've got :(
I'm really hoping this 'bug' isn't actually a bug. Having been bitten by god knows what, drank water with who knows what in it, and eaten food at places I doubt sanitation is practiced... I dono.
Hopefully tomorrow will be much more awesome!
Lee's grumpy and antisocial with a headache and being lazy. I was invited to watch him make a shelf but... with all the wasps and lack of things to watch I decided to come back to the house.
Breakfast was poptars, lunch was leftovers. Not so good reheated rolls, reheated hamburger noodle stuff and a fruit cup. Lee ate all my cherry fruit cups (bought me what? 12 of these things? I've had 4...) ah well. Shoulda laid claim to them if I wanted them.
Looking forward to sunday. Even if it's an early day I can't wait to be home. Weather at home is looking crappy but... HOME! I don't think I'd have such an issue with staying here if I could rotate families or hosts. Ruby and Mamwa are wonderful ladies but can't quite keep up with the conversations I like to have. Which is darned fine if you ask me! They earned it, being as old as they are. But really it's hard to hold proper conversations and discussions here. They all either turn in to a debate or you have to repeat yourself five times to get the topic across... and that's not to the older ladies...
Weather wise it's hot and muggy, lots of bugs out, the wind's fairly active. Rained a bit earlier so now it's just wet and hot and muggy. Hoping the clouds will dump some proper rain on us and be done with it by tomorrow. Lee wants to hike, my hip is still aching. Leading me to believe it's NOT the hike that did it.
Sunburn is peeling...
Almost everything in this house is slightly crooked. Lee said that it's because they had the garden around the house watered so much, the foundation shifted. Pretty crazy huh?
I'm not looking forward to re-packing...
Last night we watched "The Mummy" 3. ehhh..other two were way better.
So yeah, that's pretty much it. I'm going to roll over and sleep. Maybe kill this bug I've got :(
I'm really hoping this 'bug' isn't actually a bug. Having been bitten by god knows what, drank water with who knows what in it, and eaten food at places I doubt sanitation is practiced... I dono.
Hopefully tomorrow will be much more awesome!
- Current Location:Dunlap, TN
- Current Music:howling wind
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Tennessee Day 7
Love you daddy :)
Today was busy. I'm still fighting off god knows what. Starting to hear about 'the bug' that's going around. Headache has yet to go away, I've been grinding my teeth again. Arrgh!
So tomorrow hopefully Cousin Dan will be coming up. Not sure what we'll do with him, but I hope he makes it.
Saturday we're (we = penny, eddy, lee and myself) heading down to the Georgia state line to go to an amusement park. Possibly even tomorrow if Dan doesn't come and the weather holds. :)
Went through a tiny bit of Georgia today, as a random matter of fact!
Morning was the usual slowness. I was up and in the shower by 7:55am, no one else was moving yet so I took my time. Sad thing is my neck is breaking out, suggesting either I'm reacting to the soap in the sheets (and my newly washed clothes) or I break out horribly when i sweat. Who knows.
Ate toast and had some orange juice for breakfast. Ate fairly light, since I figured we'd be going out twice today (which we did!).
Drove around for a bit. The drive UP to the Incline is beautiful. Reminds me so much of home. All these little touristy spots, the only homes you see are amazingly richy and have great views. All of it on big hills! Driving through downtown Chattanooga wasn't really something to brag about. They have an aquarium I was interested in, but alas I don't have much time left here!
Incline itself wasn't "omg super awesome" but it was quite enjoyable. I kinda wonder if I could make the hike. I could until at least the last big hill? Got icecream at the bottom, really wasn't that amazing... my chocolate was freezer burnt. But I did chat to a photographer there, worked for the Sunday Bugle was it? Named... Um, let me look.
*insert pause*
Uhh, Chris Kelly with the Crested Bute, worked in Gunnison until January. Is going to move back to Boulder as soon as he can. Fun chat there :)
Drove around more after that, eventually hitting this BBQ place that Penny suggested and really liked. I admit, when I first saw it I thought this was going to be crap, run down, rude service...and for the first five minutes I believed that. Turns out we just got in after a cop call. Some chick with seven kids was there and caused a fuss, the cops got called in so all the workers (all...one we saw) was a bit stuffy still and obviously a bit agitated. Once we got the story everything was fine. I ordered a beef sandwich with mild sauce and fries. I have to admit it was quite good. Fast service too, not quite as good as Smokin' Daves back home, but very good. Price wise it was fair, and portion wise seemed just right to me.
After that we headed home............
Only that took FOREVER. Getting stuck in traffic was a nightmare. One of the police officers in the area got killed in the line of duty and his funeral was today. He was taken from the church in a horse drawn carriage to the cemetery and all the cops from around the area came. ALL THE COPS. Which meant no one to direct us around the traffic jam. Got a nice little detour, I was pretty happy I wasn't behind the wheel though. Eventually got home and sat down for an hour.
Mamwa and Aunt Ruby were dressed so nicely! Better then I've seen them yet at least. All dolled up :) Mamwa took us out to dinner to a place called the "Cookie Jar". There I had Tilapia and... mac and cheese, hush puppies, and fries. And some DELICIOUS bread rolls! Needless to say I couldn't finish it, but the bread rolls were the best part. My fish...I've had better. Could've gone for the steak but I don't like eating expensively on other peoples budgets. Had to poke Lee a dozen times today to eat slower, smaller bites, less portions, more rounded frequent meals. He's sweet, he's trying. I hope he keeps it up without me around. He'd probably be much healthier.
Once we headed out Lee and I rode with Eddy (again, we came there with him. Penny taking the ladies.) and I was told to come back. Told I was couturious, polite and needed to come back. He wasn't so sure Lee wanted me back but they did ;)
He apologized for being a bit rough, but that's alright. He and Penny are going through some stressful things and I'm really grateful for them doing everything they have for us. Though I will agree sometimes Eddy does make me 0_0;;; worry?
Great ride, regardless.
Got to check out the renters house (oh yeah, we got cup cakes to go!) after. Nice little place (little...LITTLE). Helped Mamwa through the yard, got lots of hugs and told to come back. I think they're sad I'm leaving. I keep getting asked to stay, and told to come back in six months. It's really really nice :) these people I'm staying with are wonderful. Penny and Eddy included. Shame about Natalie but I suppose not everyone can be awesome.
Penny told me at dinner that they're probably (distantly) related to about half of the Dunlap residents. Pretty crazy!
Sadly my temper and patience have been incredibly short today. I'm not meaning to be snappy but I'm VERY aware I've snapped a good bit at Lee and said some snotty things to Penny and Eddy. Hopefully I made that better by the lots of hugs and thanks I gave them. Guh I feel like crap. Hopefully not so crabby tomorrow!
So what's this about the government shutting down tomorrow? I'm so out of the loop...
Anyway, I think sometime I'll have to come back to Tennessee. Perhaps I'll have a week long lay-over in Detroit so I can hang with Megan longer, and fly from there to here? We'll have to see!
Anyway, I can't rest up very well if I keep going to sleep at midnight! Discovered I can sleep for another hour on Sunday morning, this household runs on Chattanooga time! Which is Eastern time btw. Everyone else seems to run on Dunlap time, which is midwestern. Airport it in CHA, people picking me up are in Dunlap, I run on CHA time so I can get up at 4:30, leave by 5, and hopefully arrive there by 6:20 or so, so I can run through the tiny security and get to my gate on time!
Phew...
Only other bad things I can think about to mention is the agony my hip was in this morning. I got it to pop, and Lee let me put his pillow against it so the pressure felt nice. Took two Ibuprofen and stopped noticing it. My knees still crack like crazy, actually louder then they did in Colorado. Bites on my arms haven't gone down any annnnnd... I feel fat. AHHHH! Still weighing in about the same though so...that's good.
Toodles :D
Today was busy. I'm still fighting off god knows what. Starting to hear about 'the bug' that's going around. Headache has yet to go away, I've been grinding my teeth again. Arrgh!
So tomorrow hopefully Cousin Dan will be coming up. Not sure what we'll do with him, but I hope he makes it.
Saturday we're (we = penny, eddy, lee and myself) heading down to the Georgia state line to go to an amusement park. Possibly even tomorrow if Dan doesn't come and the weather holds. :)
Went through a tiny bit of Georgia today, as a random matter of fact!
Morning was the usual slowness. I was up and in the shower by 7:55am, no one else was moving yet so I took my time. Sad thing is my neck is breaking out, suggesting either I'm reacting to the soap in the sheets (and my newly washed clothes) or I break out horribly when i sweat. Who knows.
Ate toast and had some orange juice for breakfast. Ate fairly light, since I figured we'd be going out twice today (which we did!).
Drove around for a bit. The drive UP to the Incline is beautiful. Reminds me so much of home. All these little touristy spots, the only homes you see are amazingly richy and have great views. All of it on big hills! Driving through downtown Chattanooga wasn't really something to brag about. They have an aquarium I was interested in, but alas I don't have much time left here!
Incline itself wasn't "omg super awesome" but it was quite enjoyable. I kinda wonder if I could make the hike. I could until at least the last big hill? Got icecream at the bottom, really wasn't that amazing... my chocolate was freezer burnt. But I did chat to a photographer there, worked for the Sunday Bugle was it? Named... Um, let me look.
*insert pause*
Uhh, Chris Kelly with the Crested Bute, worked in Gunnison until January. Is going to move back to Boulder as soon as he can. Fun chat there :)
Drove around more after that, eventually hitting this BBQ place that Penny suggested and really liked. I admit, when I first saw it I thought this was going to be crap, run down, rude service...and for the first five minutes I believed that. Turns out we just got in after a cop call. Some chick with seven kids was there and caused a fuss, the cops got called in so all the workers (all...one we saw) was a bit stuffy still and obviously a bit agitated. Once we got the story everything was fine. I ordered a beef sandwich with mild sauce and fries. I have to admit it was quite good. Fast service too, not quite as good as Smokin' Daves back home, but very good. Price wise it was fair, and portion wise seemed just right to me.
After that we headed home............
Only that took FOREVER. Getting stuck in traffic was a nightmare. One of the police officers in the area got killed in the line of duty and his funeral was today. He was taken from the church in a horse drawn carriage to the cemetery and all the cops from around the area came. ALL THE COPS. Which meant no one to direct us around the traffic jam. Got a nice little detour, I was pretty happy I wasn't behind the wheel though. Eventually got home and sat down for an hour.
Mamwa and Aunt Ruby were dressed so nicely! Better then I've seen them yet at least. All dolled up :) Mamwa took us out to dinner to a place called the "Cookie Jar". There I had Tilapia and... mac and cheese, hush puppies, and fries. And some DELICIOUS bread rolls! Needless to say I couldn't finish it, but the bread rolls were the best part. My fish...I've had better. Could've gone for the steak but I don't like eating expensively on other peoples budgets. Had to poke Lee a dozen times today to eat slower, smaller bites, less portions, more rounded frequent meals. He's sweet, he's trying. I hope he keeps it up without me around. He'd probably be much healthier.
Once we headed out Lee and I rode with Eddy (again, we came there with him. Penny taking the ladies.) and I was told to come back. Told I was couturious, polite and needed to come back. He wasn't so sure Lee wanted me back but they did ;)
He apologized for being a bit rough, but that's alright. He and Penny are going through some stressful things and I'm really grateful for them doing everything they have for us. Though I will agree sometimes Eddy does make me 0_0;;; worry?
Great ride, regardless.
Got to check out the renters house (oh yeah, we got cup cakes to go!) after. Nice little place (little...LITTLE). Helped Mamwa through the yard, got lots of hugs and told to come back. I think they're sad I'm leaving. I keep getting asked to stay, and told to come back in six months. It's really really nice :) these people I'm staying with are wonderful. Penny and Eddy included. Shame about Natalie but I suppose not everyone can be awesome.
Penny told me at dinner that they're probably (distantly) related to about half of the Dunlap residents. Pretty crazy!
Sadly my temper and patience have been incredibly short today. I'm not meaning to be snappy but I'm VERY aware I've snapped a good bit at Lee and said some snotty things to Penny and Eddy. Hopefully I made that better by the lots of hugs and thanks I gave them. Guh I feel like crap. Hopefully not so crabby tomorrow!
So what's this about the government shutting down tomorrow? I'm so out of the loop...
Anyway, I think sometime I'll have to come back to Tennessee. Perhaps I'll have a week long lay-over in Detroit so I can hang with Megan longer, and fly from there to here? We'll have to see!
Anyway, I can't rest up very well if I keep going to sleep at midnight! Discovered I can sleep for another hour on Sunday morning, this household runs on Chattanooga time! Which is Eastern time btw. Everyone else seems to run on Dunlap time, which is midwestern. Airport it in CHA, people picking me up are in Dunlap, I run on CHA time so I can get up at 4:30, leave by 5, and hopefully arrive there by 6:20 or so, so I can run through the tiny security and get to my gate on time!
Phew...
Only other bad things I can think about to mention is the agony my hip was in this morning. I got it to pop, and Lee let me put his pillow against it so the pressure felt nice. Took two Ibuprofen and stopped noticing it. My knees still crack like crazy, actually louder then they did in Colorado. Bites on my arms haven't gone down any annnnnd... I feel fat. AHHHH! Still weighing in about the same though so...that's good.
Toodles :D
- Current Location:Dunlap, TN
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Tennessee Day 6
Heads up to my fan-base (har har) commenting is enabled for non-live-journal users. :)
Today was yet another fairly slow day. Though not quite as slow as the past few. Started out with me getting up by 8, walking in on Mamwa in the bathroom *facepalm* I didn't think she was awake...
Anyway I got my shower, poked Lee to come make breakfast and we had crape styled pancakes. Not bad, but not what I'm used to. Ummm, hung out in his room a bit, then hung out in the living room watching TV while waiting for Penny and Eddy to show up. They were due about 11, arrived around 12.
Pretty drive out to Fall Creek Falls. They're amazingly beautiful falls too! Got pictures I'll share later with you all. Lee and I hiked down to the bottom of the falls (over an old rock slide path, the rocks quite slick) and we got sprayed by some mist. I hope some of my pictures turned out. Really neat, very beautiful, totally worth the little hike experience. Hiked back up and figured out Lee left his water up top, luckily it was still there when we arrived. Hit the non-locking bathrooms before heading back to the car and setting off for Lunch.
Ate at ... "This way Inn" ? I think. They had a buffet, gift shop, and it was a hotel type deal. Really cute. I had steak :3 Quite stuffed after. we didn't get out until just about 3. Prices were fair, not quite as cheap as in-dunlap prices. But my steak was $15 and it came with a salad bar and desert. Lee got the $8 buffet. So quite nice.
After we discussed heading to the Nature Center, but opted out. Driving by it didn't seem really worth it, a cute swimming hole but not much more.
Penny took us on a really beautiful drive, lots of horses, rolling green hills, massive houses and just total beauty. I'd love to live out here (without the bugs...). Colorado is truly beautiful, but this is the kind of place I can be really active in. Nothing's to difficult, or far away, there's not that much tourists. It's just really nice.
All the local adults I've talked to seem pretty nice. I know my personality is a bit coarse and not everyone can get along with me, but I am trying quite hard. I'm quite witty and enjoy using my smarts/knowledge to my advantage. Sadly that makes me tend to come off as cocky. I have no problem admitting things I don't know, but if I do know something I'm pretty argumentative over it. ... at least when it comes to animals...
SO tomorrow we're planning on doing the "Incline" it's only $15 per person round trip (or so). Goes up a steep hill, I really can't wait to go DOWN it. Hehe.
Stomach has been easily upset today, both with what I'm drinking and eating. Not cool. Though I'm coughing still, still pretty hoarse for the first few hours of the day, tired, and just bleeeh.
Penny helped me figure out what time I need to be ready by early Sunday. Which is 3:30am local time. Plane leaves at 7ish local-airport time. Airport's about an hour away, Eddy's coming to get me at 4 (5 airport time) so I should be fine... I hope? >
Today was yet another fairly slow day. Though not quite as slow as the past few. Started out with me getting up by 8, walking in on Mamwa in the bathroom *facepalm* I didn't think she was awake...
Anyway I got my shower, poked Lee to come make breakfast and we had crape styled pancakes. Not bad, but not what I'm used to. Ummm, hung out in his room a bit, then hung out in the living room watching TV while waiting for Penny and Eddy to show up. They were due about 11, arrived around 12.
Pretty drive out to Fall Creek Falls. They're amazingly beautiful falls too! Got pictures I'll share later with you all. Lee and I hiked down to the bottom of the falls (over an old rock slide path, the rocks quite slick) and we got sprayed by some mist. I hope some of my pictures turned out. Really neat, very beautiful, totally worth the little hike experience. Hiked back up and figured out Lee left his water up top, luckily it was still there when we arrived. Hit the non-locking bathrooms before heading back to the car and setting off for Lunch.
Ate at ... "This way Inn" ? I think. They had a buffet, gift shop, and it was a hotel type deal. Really cute. I had steak :3 Quite stuffed after. we didn't get out until just about 3. Prices were fair, not quite as cheap as in-dunlap prices. But my steak was $15 and it came with a salad bar and desert. Lee got the $8 buffet. So quite nice.
After we discussed heading to the Nature Center, but opted out. Driving by it didn't seem really worth it, a cute swimming hole but not much more.
Penny took us on a really beautiful drive, lots of horses, rolling green hills, massive houses and just total beauty. I'd love to live out here (without the bugs...). Colorado is truly beautiful, but this is the kind of place I can be really active in. Nothing's to difficult, or far away, there's not that much tourists. It's just really nice.
All the local adults I've talked to seem pretty nice. I know my personality is a bit coarse and not everyone can get along with me, but I am trying quite hard. I'm quite witty and enjoy using my smarts/knowledge to my advantage. Sadly that makes me tend to come off as cocky. I have no problem admitting things I don't know, but if I do know something I'm pretty argumentative over it. ... at least when it comes to animals...
SO tomorrow we're planning on doing the "Incline" it's only $15 per person round trip (or so). Goes up a steep hill, I really can't wait to go DOWN it. Hehe.
Stomach has been easily upset today, both with what I'm drinking and eating. Not cool. Though I'm coughing still, still pretty hoarse for the first few hours of the day, tired, and just bleeeh.
Penny helped me figure out what time I need to be ready by early Sunday. Which is 3:30am local time. Plane leaves at 7ish local-airport time. Airport's about an hour away, Eddy's coming to get me at 4 (5 airport time) so I should be fine... I hope? >
- Current Location:Dunlap, TN
- Current Music:Lee playing 'Blood'
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Tennessee Day 5
Not much going on today. It's nice and cool
outside. Apparently I'm not allowed to go see Echo again. Owners decided
they'd rather do things the hard and more costly way. Oh well. feel bad
for the little horse, he's a great guy. Never once did I feel scared
while around him, or threatened. He could do with an up-grade. But what
can I do?
I never like seeing horses like that, it's even harder when you get involved with them. Last year at my job we had some horses drop weight like crazy. It was a bit difficult to keep them fat and happy. We'd let them graze when there was grass, put some out to pasture for a bit and a couple of them just never seemed to chunk back out while I was there. Sure they got used, but so did all the other horses. Anyway my point being, I know crap happens, but when you know the horse on a more personal level it's always hard to see them going down hill you know?
So right, today Really not much... lots of hanging out with Lee in his room. Watching him play games. Not that I totally mind... my arms are sore from Echo pulling me yesterday. I THINK the rest of the week is suppose to be busier. Who knows...
Doing laundry tomorrow, I'm nearly out of warm-weather-not-fancy shirts. Bummer. Lee's french toast is tasty... had... home-made french dip styled sandwiches. Closer to a philly steak and cheese? Regardless it's round steak sliced thin, topped lightly with mozzarella on a toasted hot-dog bun. Made some dipping aju sauce (er however it's spelled) from the 'drippings'(what's left burnt on the pan, hehe) beef bullion, water, dash of roasted garlic and pepper. Turned out pretty good :)
No idea what's for dinner, that's hours away and I have plenty of time right now. Hopefully get some more hiking done tomorrow. I'm sure my feet are appreciating the break.
To bad I think plans to ATV are off, bummer Natalie's bunch wasn't here for longer.
Sorry to bore you all.
I'm taking some time to upload some of the photos under the cut though!
I never like seeing horses like that, it's even harder when you get involved with them. Last year at my job we had some horses drop weight like crazy. It was a bit difficult to keep them fat and happy. We'd let them graze when there was grass, put some out to pasture for a bit and a couple of them just never seemed to chunk back out while I was there. Sure they got used, but so did all the other horses. Anyway my point being, I know crap happens, but when you know the horse on a more personal level it's always hard to see them going down hill you know?
So right, today Really not much... lots of hanging out with Lee in his room. Watching him play games. Not that I totally mind... my arms are sore from Echo pulling me yesterday. I THINK the rest of the week is suppose to be busier. Who knows...
Doing laundry tomorrow, I'm nearly out of warm-weather-not-fancy shirts. Bummer. Lee's french toast is tasty... had... home-made french dip styled sandwiches. Closer to a philly steak and cheese? Regardless it's round steak sliced thin, topped lightly with mozzarella on a toasted hot-dog bun. Made some dipping aju sauce (er however it's spelled) from the 'drippings'(what's left burnt on the pan, hehe) beef bullion, water, dash of roasted garlic and pepper. Turned out pretty good :)
No idea what's for dinner, that's hours away and I have plenty of time right now. Hopefully get some more hiking done tomorrow. I'm sure my feet are appreciating the break.
To bad I think plans to ATV are off, bummer Natalie's bunch wasn't here for longer.
Sorry to bore you all.
I'm taking some time to upload some of the photos under the cut though!
Oh look, Natalie's gone to comment on my FB that I'm 'ugly as hell', a 'ratard' and that she's 'prettier than' me. Oh boy, I remember why I avoided (oh and my big ears) making friends. Especially tween-age girl friends.
I'm going back to my mature cave, and going to resume hanging out with boys. They're so much cooler and less two faced. Fun while it lasted...er...for a day.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Tennessee Day 4
- This is a series of cross-posted blogs from Livejournal -
So why does nose-blood get SO sticky and nasty? And sorry, there's actually nearly no pictures taken today...
Today was slow, didn't do much. Severe weather warning with hail due (and tornadoes in the flatter areas) so we didn't want to walk out to far.
Woke up, had a fruit cup and some orange juice. Showered before that, poked lee after all that. Got his butt up and walked up to see Echo. Banged on some doors but no one was around, had to look a bit for the tack bucket. Found it though.
Echo was at the very very back of the field, hanging with the Donkeys. Kinda glad he's not up front anymore at least. Easy enough to catch, doesn't LIKE being caught, and doesn't come to you... but he doesn't 'run' either. Anyway caught him and got up top. Brushed and saddled him. Went to hop on, and he spooked at something. So one foot in the stirrup one hand on the horn (with the reins) he took off on me! Running from mid-back-yard to the mid-side yard. I held on, thought about trying to jump off but was positive as soon as I let go he'd either speed up or I'd get drug further. That, and the bottom driveway gate was open and I really didn't want him getting out. So I sat tight (har har) and pulled the rein towards me as much as I could. He freaked out that I was still there (AHHH what's that on my side!) and jumped to the side, flinging me to the left as he went right. Thankfully that move got my foot out of the stirrup (bad me, not bringing riding shoes..just hiking shoes) and I landed on my feet, reins in hand!
I think he spooked at the rain and wind gusting up. But honestly who knows. He proceeded to be a bit odd as I marched back and grabbed the lead rope. (Halter off, I really don't like riding him in it/having it on him constantly). Hooked the lead to the reins (small running reins) and let him some slack as he proceeded to throw a fit because of the lead line. Hrrrmmm, seems to me either someone's been a bit naughty with it and he's got a reason to fear it. Got drug around a bit while simply handling the lead rope and giving some basic ques with it (Back up, step away, step forward) but mostly step forward. Once he decided he'd listen slightly better, we got to making friends with the rope, rubbing it on him, bumping him with it, lightly hitting him in the leg/shoulder with it so he wouldn't freak out as the girls tend to ride with the lead ropes.
Butt-bumping didn't go quite so well, he freaked out a few times there and did the 'rock back' thing. Usually when Kandy did that she was giving up or about to explode. Regardless he didn't do anything...we did get stuck shortly after that (he spun around and got tangled with the lead rope, barbed wire and fence) but we got out of that fine. Oh and by this point the reins were over his head and the lead was directly attached to his bit. The bridle doesn't have a throat latch or really anything, even the forehead band is just decorative. Arrrgh.
So after a little more working on that, and when I clicked and waved the leadrope from behind him, he walked forward and in a fairly consistant circle, we called it a 'day'.
I had Lee hold him, as it was beginning to rain a bit more and I really didn't want him to bolt if it thundered, I hopped on, and did a bit of a lesson. Reminding him how to turn, to move his butt and not just his front end, worked on responding to pressure and not making me nag him for a trot. He trotted off quite willingly, though I'm PRETTY sure it's just because the weather made him frisky feeling. Hopefully we'll see tomorrow, it hasn't stopped storming.
After a very short ride I hopped off, he was sweaty, foaming (both ends) and I felt like we accomplished a ton. Untacked him, brushed him out, watered him and put him out. good day... to bad we didn't actually tell anyone we were there. I think Colby knew to expect us? Since Natalie and her friend left.
I'm coughing a lot, think i've cought something. No fun :( also got bitten a few times by god knows what. Lee guesses a tick. Giant red bites on my left under-arm.
Returned to Ruby's, toured the property a bit. Got to see the orchard, milk barn, smoke house, storage thingys, outhouse, old shed... quite neat :) They had horses, cows, and chickens back in the day. Being in a farm with so much history (and the Henson family owning all this land is pretty awesome.) Hung out in Lee's room for a bit, chatting about stuff and me ranting. I rant...a lot.
Heard someone over the baby monitor (come in to Ruby's) and went to visit. Jim I believe his name is, dressed all fancy coming to help with the tractor. It'll be fun to watch more of the farm life. I really could get used to living out here. Not sure where I'd work, but it's cheap enough. And so beautiful. Beginning to accept the bugs, just need some OFF!
Oh, and my shampoo now makes my hair super greasy, and my lotion and face scrubs don't cut it. Rawr, body changing! Knees still crack, toes still hurt while hiking, but I'm able to ignore it. No blisters yet!
Lee made some killer French Toast for lunch, I'd never thought to add SUGAR to it, but regardless tasty!
While hanging with Lee we sorted video games, not the funnest thing ever but hey, busy work!
Eating way to much cookies again.
My room smells like feet and dirty laundry, probably have to do some tomorrow or wednesday. Booo.
Watched Huston animal cops, so depressing :( and had round 'steak' for dinner. Something I'm noticing out here is the meat is completely different then the meat back in colorado. Nothing tastes remotely like it does there. Not the burger, not the round steak, not the stuff in a french dip >,>
Its texture is closer to that of... ham? And it cooks so dark!
I love the sounds out here, the night is filled with frogs :)
Remembered something about yesterday that I forgot to mention, Aunt Julia asked about braces. ARRRGH I knew people noticed. Not that I didn't think they would, but why'd you bring it up if you didn't? Stupid dentist from younger years. He had the chance to correct it...
Anyway after dinner we watched Iron Man 2. I could watch it, unlike Iron Man 1. Still just brainless shiny action. But ah well.
Tomorrow I need to try something different, this hair is NASTY.
- Current Location:Dunlap, TN
- Current Music:Thunder
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Tennessee Day 2 and 3
I mega owe you guys pictures, but this computer
doesn't have anything to edit (nor would I be any good at editing, and
it'd be annoying and painful to resize all those) so a photo dump will
be done when I return home. I promise.
On the other hand, I'm SO DEAD. Early night tonight!!
Saturday the 2nd started off quite slowly. I was bored, lots of 'grr' emotions passing through me. I hadn't slept well because there's this annoying fan above my head that sounds like howling wind. Rawr. Last time I checked the clock it was about 4am before I gave up and messed with the fan above me. Got up and was moving around by 7:30. Breakfast the old ladies (Mamaw and Ruby) made for me, poptarts and orange juice. They're such nice ladies... I'll give a bit of history on them some other day.
Anyway I was all clean by 8:30, no fan in the shower room, oh well. Lee was being antisocial and rather lazy kinda ... hrm...
I'm really not sure what I think of Ruby's (or is it Mamaw's..) chihuahua named Ginger. I mean...it's a freaking chihuahua. Anyway, I won't comment much. She's a happy healthy little dog.
Eventually (around nine?) lee and I went walking. Covered a lot of ground in a short amount of time, eventually wound our way back down and over to his cusin's place. Through the gate we saw (as we walked up he came towards us) the horse I've heard about. He was ridable and 'the girls' rode him. (there passes one of the ATV's...)
ahem so we get up there, dogs barking at us, horse following, and minor chaos... out pop 'the girls' Natalie and Carlie (carlie being the friend).
In their Jammies...it's 10ish...Dunlap time, as I later learn is different from Chattanooga time... Ok.
Anyway hiking with Lee continued as we went in search of cows and donkeys (and found cow bones, and donkeys, but no cows). A kid (Nathanial/nay) came with us, making a fun little game out of it and showing us all the 'spots' in the woods. Lots of pictures were taken.
Eventually we 'landed' at the river. Where the girls popped out on the 4wheeler and I was all "aw i wish I could go"...and got invited! I felt bad for ditching Lee, they said we'd be right back but apparently time isn't important out here so ok! I had SUCH a ball. Really seriously amazing awesomeness HART.
Rent here is so cheap! For a decent place it's only $400ish a month, Natalie wants me to rent from her parents since they have propert out here and then we could be friends :B
SO the horse. The horse is a Tennessee Walking horse named Echo. Black with a little star, he's this short thing. Clearly hasn't had a vet, wormer, good enough feed or his feet done in awhile. Turns out his owners didn't really know how often you needed to do that, let alone a person to do them. EEK. (found out today that she's just 'not going to' do his feet every 6-8 weeks, more like every 3 or 4 months... oy vey.) They also keep a halter on him at all times and he has a sore in his nose :( Got him for free...
ANYWAY. I rode him around after Natalie shown me how 'bad' he was. Really he just needs a firm and consistent rider, I tried to convey this to the girls but got pouted at a lot. I felt a bit bad, and quite a bit like a drill Sargent "SIT UP" and "KICK!" shaking my head as he goes his way because she wasn't firm enough. I hop on board and got him stopping, turning, trotting, and a little canter out of him too!
Something that bothers me though is how much he coughs, he coughs alarmingly often while going up hills. Not even having to run.
There's about seven dogs, two weenies (one named chilli, who likes to run in front of cars and under horses because they don't use leashes...)
Beauty and (bear, i know that's not his name...) are related (pics later) 'bear' is her puppy, Beauty was a stray. She's quite pretty.
Delta is this long haired setter cross that's so mellow and awesome.
There were other dogs, I think? Not sure..
Oh! while ATVing we saw a snake. I got pictures...probably just a rat-snake or something. I really doubt it was deadly.
Rode double a bit on Echo, not very far though...he was acting up a bit and I didn't want Natalie to fall.
Was declared her and Carlie's "new best friend" which was very much awesome...and was called cool a few times.
Ate dinner here, had a cheeseburger and some tater wedges :3
then headed back up there when Natalie failed to come pick me up at 7:30(pm). Had shown her where I lived previously and she fell in love. Yes, I live in a beautiful place, I know I know.
Natalie's family had a cookout, hot dogs and chilli, I sat out, having eaten. But still was a bunch of fun. Had some smores, got 'harassed' by Echo. Kicked and back-handed Nay. I felt bad but he was REALLY annoying me and no matter how nicely I asked he wouldn't. Rawr.
Told the girls my 'life' story...
Got some life story back, then went 4wheeling in the dark...got asked the 'dreaded' question.
"Do you believe in god"
Ok so I don't mind other peoples beliefs. Whatever floats your boat you know? I'm pretty passive and won't judge you on that. I'll give Natalie the benefit of the doubt of her age and to not know better... but the one thing you don't do to someone who says 'no' is ask why AND try to convert them. No, just no, we've all heard it before, if we wanted to, if we did, we would. I really love to hear why people believe in him, it's nice and it's good to know some people still have faith, everything happens for a reason but only so much even could be him.
Unless we no longer have free will.
I've had a headache for the past couple of days. (sunday, woo)
Everyone thinks Lee and I are an item, and while he may wish, there's nothing like that between us. He's the sweetest guy I know, but my potential mates need to be at least a little more educated..if not a ton. Poor guy, stuck in the 'friend zone.'
So I'm toasted and sunburnt, but have no ticks. WOOHOO for common sense! Pants and long sleeves as much as you can while bush-whackin.
Got home around 12:30. I'm sleeping less here then I was at home!!
SUNDAY APRIL 3rd!
God it was hard to wake up today :(
Grannies/Aunties? Made up some biscuits and sausage (just biskits for me) for breakfast. Yummy :3 Mamaw shown me some pictures of Lee as a babe and her family. It's incredible to see 'pictures' of people over a hundred years ago. Like their mom as a young thing, and them as young people. I wish I could draw like that!
Slow morning really. Wasn't out of the house until around 10:30 (told I'd meet the girls at 9ish, was up at 7... only 10 because they're on Chatanooga time.)
I thought today would be very busy, but it wasn't really.
Sleeping in tomorrow that's for sure. The wind is howling and there's some bad weather due.
Went up to Natalie's again got Echo saddled and rode a bit some more. Talked with peoples more (Natalies dad wanted everyone to ride Echo that day...um...not something I'd suggest.) Today honestly felt so unproductive with the girls. Natalie never seemed to get out of her 'tired' mode and seemed drained and a bit crabby. That's alright I guess, but did give me some odd vibes. Carlie was awesome and a real go-getter. Both fo them need some serious riding lessons though.
Honestly I feel bad for Echo, I won't get in to it though :( Poor confused boy.
SO I was out of there by 12:30, aunt Julia suppose to be driving up from Georiga to see us. She was due around 12ish and I hadn't seen anyone pull in to Ruby's driveway. So headed back, checked FB and saw she got lost!
So she arrived around 1ish instead. Got a tour of the house and we went off to eat lunch. Had some delicious $4!!!! French Dip down in Dunlap. Funny how all we could talk about was silly stupid family matters but that's alright.
Ginger did NOT like Julia's hubby. .. eek.
After she left (umm... 4ish?) Lee and i started to walk up towards Natalie's again, but she came by on the ATV to let us know they were leaving (aww bummer) and that's a no-go. Hopefully I'll get a chance to drive the ATV later though.
Anyway more walking with lee (there are wild dogs here, oooo) and enjoyed that. He seems to be feeling really well about himself. Doing better and even asking for constructive criticism. Headed back for dinner, had some Lee-version pepper steak and watched how to train your dragon. Now I'm here, writing this.
Random things;
I've had a bloody nose (almost constant) for the past couple days. Makes my nostrils really crusty and blood just randomly flakes out. Ewww.
Julia brought me a pretty little necklace and bracelet thing. Not sure if the bracelet will fit but we'll see! :)
They have sulfur wells here...
and my new hoodie? It's 'long' because it HAS THUMB HOLES. SQUEE.
and that is all for now, I'm SO going to bed :D
On the other hand, I'm SO DEAD. Early night tonight!!
Saturday the 2nd started off quite slowly. I was bored, lots of 'grr' emotions passing through me. I hadn't slept well because there's this annoying fan above my head that sounds like howling wind. Rawr. Last time I checked the clock it was about 4am before I gave up and messed with the fan above me. Got up and was moving around by 7:30. Breakfast the old ladies (Mamaw and Ruby) made for me, poptarts and orange juice. They're such nice ladies... I'll give a bit of history on them some other day.
Anyway I was all clean by 8:30, no fan in the shower room, oh well. Lee was being antisocial and rather lazy kinda ... hrm...
I'm really not sure what I think of Ruby's (or is it Mamaw's..) chihuahua named Ginger. I mean...it's a freaking chihuahua. Anyway, I won't comment much. She's a happy healthy little dog.
Eventually (around nine?) lee and I went walking. Covered a lot of ground in a short amount of time, eventually wound our way back down and over to his cusin's place. Through the gate we saw (as we walked up he came towards us) the horse I've heard about. He was ridable and 'the girls' rode him. (there passes one of the ATV's...)
ahem so we get up there, dogs barking at us, horse following, and minor chaos... out pop 'the girls' Natalie and Carlie (carlie being the friend).
In their Jammies...it's 10ish...Dunlap time, as I later learn is different from Chattanooga time... Ok.
Anyway hiking with Lee continued as we went in search of cows and donkeys (and found cow bones, and donkeys, but no cows). A kid (Nathanial/nay) came with us, making a fun little game out of it and showing us all the 'spots' in the woods. Lots of pictures were taken.
Eventually we 'landed' at the river. Where the girls popped out on the 4wheeler and I was all "aw i wish I could go"...and got invited! I felt bad for ditching Lee, they said we'd be right back but apparently time isn't important out here so ok! I had SUCH a ball. Really seriously amazing awesomeness HART.
Rent here is so cheap! For a decent place it's only $400ish a month, Natalie wants me to rent from her parents since they have propert out here and then we could be friends :B
SO the horse. The horse is a Tennessee Walking horse named Echo. Black with a little star, he's this short thing. Clearly hasn't had a vet, wormer, good enough feed or his feet done in awhile. Turns out his owners didn't really know how often you needed to do that, let alone a person to do them. EEK. (found out today that she's just 'not going to' do his feet every 6-8 weeks, more like every 3 or 4 months... oy vey.) They also keep a halter on him at all times and he has a sore in his nose :( Got him for free...
ANYWAY. I rode him around after Natalie shown me how 'bad' he was. Really he just needs a firm and consistent rider, I tried to convey this to the girls but got pouted at a lot. I felt a bit bad, and quite a bit like a drill Sargent "SIT UP" and "KICK!" shaking my head as he goes his way because she wasn't firm enough. I hop on board and got him stopping, turning, trotting, and a little canter out of him too!
Something that bothers me though is how much he coughs, he coughs alarmingly often while going up hills. Not even having to run.
There's about seven dogs, two weenies (one named chilli, who likes to run in front of cars and under horses because they don't use leashes...)
Beauty and (bear, i know that's not his name...) are related (pics later) 'bear' is her puppy, Beauty was a stray. She's quite pretty.
Delta is this long haired setter cross that's so mellow and awesome.
There were other dogs, I think? Not sure..
Oh! while ATVing we saw a snake. I got pictures...probably just a rat-snake or something. I really doubt it was deadly.
Rode double a bit on Echo, not very far though...he was acting up a bit and I didn't want Natalie to fall.
Was declared her and Carlie's "new best friend" which was very much awesome...and was called cool a few times.
Ate dinner here, had a cheeseburger and some tater wedges :3
then headed back up there when Natalie failed to come pick me up at 7:30(pm). Had shown her where I lived previously and she fell in love. Yes, I live in a beautiful place, I know I know.
Natalie's family had a cookout, hot dogs and chilli, I sat out, having eaten. But still was a bunch of fun. Had some smores, got 'harassed' by Echo. Kicked and back-handed Nay. I felt bad but he was REALLY annoying me and no matter how nicely I asked he wouldn't. Rawr.
Told the girls my 'life' story...
Got some life story back, then went 4wheeling in the dark...got asked the 'dreaded' question.
"Do you believe in god"
Ok so I don't mind other peoples beliefs. Whatever floats your boat you know? I'm pretty passive and won't judge you on that. I'll give Natalie the benefit of the doubt of her age and to not know better... but the one thing you don't do to someone who says 'no' is ask why AND try to convert them. No, just no, we've all heard it before, if we wanted to, if we did, we would. I really love to hear why people believe in him, it's nice and it's good to know some people still have faith, everything happens for a reason but only so much even could be him.
Unless we no longer have free will.
I've had a headache for the past couple of days. (sunday, woo)
Everyone thinks Lee and I are an item, and while he may wish, there's nothing like that between us. He's the sweetest guy I know, but my potential mates need to be at least a little more educated..if not a ton. Poor guy, stuck in the 'friend zone.'
So I'm toasted and sunburnt, but have no ticks. WOOHOO for common sense! Pants and long sleeves as much as you can while bush-whackin.
Got home around 12:30. I'm sleeping less here then I was at home!!
SUNDAY APRIL 3rd!
God it was hard to wake up today :(
Grannies/Aunties? Made up some biscuits and sausage (just biskits for me) for breakfast. Yummy :3 Mamaw shown me some pictures of Lee as a babe and her family. It's incredible to see 'pictures' of people over a hundred years ago. Like their mom as a young thing, and them as young people. I wish I could draw like that!
Slow morning really. Wasn't out of the house until around 10:30 (told I'd meet the girls at 9ish, was up at 7... only 10 because they're on Chatanooga time.)
I thought today would be very busy, but it wasn't really.
Sleeping in tomorrow that's for sure. The wind is howling and there's some bad weather due.
Went up to Natalie's again got Echo saddled and rode a bit some more. Talked with peoples more (Natalies dad wanted everyone to ride Echo that day...um...not something I'd suggest.) Today honestly felt so unproductive with the girls. Natalie never seemed to get out of her 'tired' mode and seemed drained and a bit crabby. That's alright I guess, but did give me some odd vibes. Carlie was awesome and a real go-getter. Both fo them need some serious riding lessons though.
Honestly I feel bad for Echo, I won't get in to it though :( Poor confused boy.
SO I was out of there by 12:30, aunt Julia suppose to be driving up from Georiga to see us. She was due around 12ish and I hadn't seen anyone pull in to Ruby's driveway. So headed back, checked FB and saw she got lost!
So she arrived around 1ish instead. Got a tour of the house and we went off to eat lunch. Had some delicious $4!!!! French Dip down in Dunlap. Funny how all we could talk about was silly stupid family matters but that's alright.
Ginger did NOT like Julia's hubby. .. eek.
After she left (umm... 4ish?) Lee and i started to walk up towards Natalie's again, but she came by on the ATV to let us know they were leaving (aww bummer) and that's a no-go. Hopefully I'll get a chance to drive the ATV later though.
Anyway more walking with lee (there are wild dogs here, oooo) and enjoyed that. He seems to be feeling really well about himself. Doing better and even asking for constructive criticism. Headed back for dinner, had some Lee-version pepper steak and watched how to train your dragon. Now I'm here, writing this.
Random things;
I've had a bloody nose (almost constant) for the past couple days. Makes my nostrils really crusty and blood just randomly flakes out. Ewww.
Julia brought me a pretty little necklace and bracelet thing. Not sure if the bracelet will fit but we'll see! :)
They have sulfur wells here...
and my new hoodie? It's 'long' because it HAS THUMB HOLES. SQUEE.
and that is all for now, I'm SO going to bed :D
- Current Location:Dunlap, TN
Tennessee Day 1/2
- This is a series of cross-posted blogs from Livejournal -
Was so crazy busy I didn't get a chance to blog!
the morning was boring and slow but that changed when Lee and I went up to his cousin's place. Met a bunch of girls and a few guys there. Dubbed the girls 'best friend' and also called awesome. Rode a little Tennessee walker named Echo (who's a butt, and they were riding SO wrongly). Rode 3 people on an ATV (and have a love of ATV's) I'm sunburnt to a crisp, have lots of pictures of cowbones, forgot lunch and gained 3lbs (WHAT!?) but I'm so very awesome :)
also very tired, my eyes were all crispy from the fire smoke. I'll hopefully get a proper blog done this evening. Not nearly as much planned then!
Was so crazy busy I didn't get a chance to blog!
the morning was boring and slow but that changed when Lee and I went up to his cousin's place. Met a bunch of girls and a few guys there. Dubbed the girls 'best friend' and also called awesome. Rode a little Tennessee walker named Echo (who's a butt, and they were riding SO wrongly). Rode 3 people on an ATV (and have a love of ATV's) I'm sunburnt to a crisp, have lots of pictures of cowbones, forgot lunch and gained 3lbs (WHAT!?) but I'm so very awesome :)
also very tired, my eyes were all crispy from the fire smoke. I'll hopefully get a proper blog done this evening. Not nearly as much planned then!
- Current Location:Dunlap, TN
Friday, April 1, 2011
Tennessee Day 1
Pictures later, it's already midnight....
woke up this morning at 5am so I could be ready for the shuttle at 6:30. Had some toast and carnation's "quick breakfast" for my breakfast. Set off.
Gary was my shuttle driver. He wasn't bad but didn't get the hint that my throat was VERY sore and I really was tired of talking. Oh well, 2nd passenger came on and I didn't have to talk anymore.
Checked my bag and got through Denver security no problem. Had the little circle x-ray thingy and while it was a bit 'ugggh' it really wasn't a hassle. Went off to the train, got to my gate...and wasted some time playing solitaire. Uneventful flight really, lots of clouds from Iowa on. Mostly smooth. People commented throughout the entire trip on my "hug me I'm a loony" shirt. Got some delicious coffee yogurt from TCBY, $5 of delicious, and totally worth it!
Some guy while waiting at my gate started talking to me. He loves earth movers...his daughter's a search and rescue person for 13 years, his son's in Iraq his 4th time. My point of this story is the dad was doing his best to get me to become his daughter-in-law and marry a guy I never met!! LOL I even got the son's mailing address!!! Guy was a bit of a freak, but it was definintly entertaining conversation.
Landed in Detroit and wondered around for awhile before figuring out their system. I must say DIA is MUCH more organized (Denver). Signs actually help and point you in the right direction...also has food courts outside of security.
Anyway, met up with Megan. I was worried I wouldn't recgonize her but alas! I knew her as soon as I saw her :)
Wandered around a good bit, the only place that sold anything was a coffee stand. I bought some "Naked" for $5.50 or something like that. She got a salad for nearly $10!!!
Took a little walk outside of the airport, really not much to see. Back inside someone was giving the TSA a lot of trouble for them opening his bags (lots of tools in there). Ahhh... we went back downstairs and (elevator!) found the international arrival area...which had a little shop...which had more and a better selection of food compared to the upstairs shop... so we spent $3.50 on icecream bars...UGGHG. Good but not that kind of good. Finished that and went back to TSA where we parted our ways.
Let me say this, Megan is awesome :)
TSA i felt like a total retard, I went through (done this before, got chatted to a bit) BUT... I forgot to drink my water!!!! the lady pulled it out and commented it was such a nice bottle, I said dump it or I'll drink it, just let me keep my bottle (and I'm so sorry, i forgot!) she said it was nice, so she escorted me back to the otherside where I ungracefully chugged it (wearing a good portion) and marched back through. Getting a few "Yeah i know you's" and "weren't you just here?"
So got to my gate (faaaar faaaar away. Rode the shiny train thing and walked around in the underground shiny) but there's no net in Detroit!! There is in denver, but their 'free' net costs $10 a day. Phhhhft. Nevermind! So no net AND no food. I eventually caved and went walking around my terminal, martini's, coffee, shirts and hats... right no food -_- so i go buy some chips from a machine, WOO!
Chat to some people waiting for my plane (awesome people, all work for some warehouse company. Actually this entire flight was filled with awesome people :)
Eventually got on board this TINY little airplane. 48 seats!! You could even see the pilot's cabin!!! The flight attendant was amazing, funny and wonderful lady. Much more friendly then the large plane's attendants.
The road was right along side where the planes were, which was a biI freaky IMO, can't imagine the wind they produce on the road...oh well.
Lady behind me was an awesome chat, she has a boyfriend who works PART TIME for the airport, she flys anywhere she wants for FREE. with her kid! Her kid btw is beautiful. Both pretty and she seems smart...but really pretty *ahem* and looks NOTHING like her mother.
So we land in Chattanooga, which...is TINY. Our airplane doesn't have room in the overhead baggage area for normal baggage, so you actually collect your larger bags once you EXIT the plane onto the tarmac. SQUEE. But my luggage was checked so whatever. Got off the plane, walked in to the building, called Lee and was a bit 0_0 as it as so tiny.
There's NO security from where he got me to where I walked out. AHHHHH.
Met him, aunt penny and uncle something (crazy, is what he introduced himself as). Got here about an hour later...this place is HUGE and I can't wait to see it in the morning. Lee does...bother me a little with how he treats the CHIHUAHUA (ginger...) but... I guess that's all I can expect.
Now i'm tired, need to get up sometime tomorrow. And i THINK i covered it all. :)
To tomorrow!
- Current Location:Dunlap, TN
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
First Flight Booked
Decided to not go to Iowa. My friends there aren't exactly in the position to 'entertain' me. One of them being pregnant and the other living with her husband and her parents. So i moved the Tennessee trip to spring.
Lee (the guy I'm visiting) has some trail work for me to do, and says there's a horse stable about half hour walking distance. You can bet I'll be casually asking for a job... well as casually as I can. Would be nice to get out of Estes and work somewhere else for a while.
Hitting Detroit for a four hour layover on my way there and meeting up with an internet friend named Megan. We met about the same time Emma and I have met, so years back. Hoping it will be fun, she's a very wonderful warm young woman and it's been inspirational to grow with her.
Taking the shuttle service my mother works for down to Denver International Airport, leaving around 6:30am to catch my 11ish flight. Oh well, that's what I get for living over an hour away from the airport!
Touching down in Detroit around 4, and leaving around 8. Landing in TN at almost 10. Hope I'm not to groggy and cranky by then, I've never been a plane sleeper.
Taking my DSLR with me. Probably not the cheaper camera, while I love it, I'd really like to get some quality photos this time and Mister Point and Shoot isn't cutting it anymore.
Flight and travel to the rest of the world is put on "hold" for now. I have to book the travels with a valid passport and within a month of my return date. When I get home from TN I'm hoping to renew my passport (expires in June) and get everything booked. But that REALLY does depend on if I get a job or not.
Job is first priority.
On the other hand, I know I have my other livejournal for this kind of thing, but should I post some horsey-stories here too? They'd be put under a 'horse' filter. I always dislike spamming my other journal with horse stuff, since it is suppose to be "doll based."
(on the other hand, I'm hoping to get some of my other travel stories up. Scotland and Ohio's visits and such...I doubt any of my childhood travels will be posted.)
- Current Location:Home, Colorado
- Current Mood:
cheerful
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
2011 Plans and happenings
The first post of my transferring blog series.
Phew! Finally decided to get a start on this :)
I'm thinking about talking to a travel agent about planning my course. Ideally I'll have around $10k for these travels. Realistically I'm thinking only $8k. We'll see how far I get with that!
Hoping to Couch Surf and stay with internet friends while I hop from country to country. There are so many places I want to go!
Stateside I've been to:
Iowa, Ohio, Arizona, Colorado and Utah
Driven through: Nebraska, New Mexico, Indianna, Illinois, Kansas, and Wyoming
Plans this year:
Previously I've been:
INTERNATIONAL
SO! I'm hoping to leave in February 2012 and head to New Zealand or another southern hemisphere location. Planning on multi-city flights.
But first, I need to renew my passport. Fix the car, and earn another $6k. Big plans!
Wish me luck ~
If you're interested in hearing about previous travels, please ask. I really don't mind blogging them out. Mostly this will be for travels as they happen though.
I'm thinking about talking to a travel agent about planning my course. Ideally I'll have around $10k for these travels. Realistically I'm thinking only $8k. We'll see how far I get with that!
Hoping to Couch Surf and stay with internet friends while I hop from country to country. There are so many places I want to go!
Stateside I've been to:
Iowa, Ohio, Arizona, Colorado and Utah
Driven through: Nebraska, New Mexico, Indianna, Illinois, Kansas, and Wyoming
Plans this year:
- Drive to Iowa. Visit friends from April 1st to 13th. Give or take a few days on arrival/departure since that's "snow season" where I live. $500/$500
- Tennessee in October? Visit friend. $500/500 I'll be flying there, and have pretty much free room and board :)
- Cruise in November? Bahamas/Bermuda/Caribbean still tentatively planning. $0/$500ish
Previously I've been:
INTERNATIONAL
- Scotland in 2006. August I do believe?
- Flew to England, drove to Wales, drove to Scotland. August 2009
- Flew to Ohio in January 2009 (visiting family)
- Drove to Arizona in 2009 (Visiting family) stayed in Utah for a night.
SO! I'm hoping to leave in February 2012 and head to New Zealand or another southern hemisphere location. Planning on multi-city flights.
But first, I need to renew my passport. Fix the car, and earn another $6k. Big plans!
Wish me luck ~
If you're interested in hearing about previous travels, please ask. I really don't mind blogging them out. Mostly this will be for travels as they happen though.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)