Evidently I have a killer cat in little Chicky. Yes, there were bird feathers in the garage this morning, and the dead little carcasses of two mice. No wonder my garage is torn apart each day! She is a killing machine.

I am a real softie. I hate struggle and death, the fear and inevitable demise of little creatures at the mercy of predators. Nature is a terrible thing on the one hand, and a joy on the other. I will have to keep my eyes trained for the beautiful and wonderful.

Thanks for your thoughts and comments- No, Mary Lou, Napoleon is safe. Chicky tries, bless her, but he is too quick. I hope he doesn't meet a terrible end at the claws of a little black and white kitty.

Have a wonderful weekend,
Becky
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I have a bad situation brewing here on my country road. Last night when I put Chicky in the garage I noticed a bird in there. It didn't fly up, so am afraid that it was already injured.

So. I didn't sleep well thinking about what I would find this morning when I let Chicky out. Cross your fingers. I overslept due to bad storms in the night, so am running very late. I will post later with the outcome.

Happy Friday!!!!
Until tomorow,
Becky
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One of the qualities that has seen me through rough patches is my ability to pick myself up by the bootstraps and move on. I have a positive outlook, and even when I am down about something I can find a positive direction to go and something to do when I get there. Although change is frustrating and disappointments are hard to swallow, I rarely stay down for long. Life is just too good.

I had a phone call from my best friend Diane last night. Is there anything better than laughing until your sides ache? We can find humor in anything, and did. Laughter is the best medicine for a sagging spirit, and if she was hoping to hear me laugh she got her money's worth.

This morning I am ready to greet the world with a smile. It is Thursday, and that means that tomorrow is TGIF already. I don't know about you, but I am ready. I hope that you have a good friend you call when you are in need of a good laugh. Give them a call today. It will lift your spirits and fill your heart with feel good and warm fuzzies.

Thank you for your comments and support. Bloggers are the best!
Until tomorrow,
Becky
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I have stood at many crossroads in my life, facing a huge decision that would change my life. It is exciting, scary, and intimidating all at the same time to have something you think you have wanted all of your life within your grasp yet be afraid to reach out for it.

We all want to be happy. There are things, situations, or people that would make that a reality for us, but for most it remains a fantasy yet unrealized. Sometimes we never get the opportunity to know how we would react if given the dream we always thought we wanted.

Recently I stood at the crossroads of life, on the brink of everything I had always hoped for and blinked. Mostly because I knew the outcome should I reach out for the unknown. On the advice of a very good friend I faced the risk and took the leap.

I would love to tell you everything turned out perfectly. Hurt and disappointment are the bi-products of leaping into the abyss, but life is full of both. It is better to risk than never know what would have happened.

Today I am at peace. Fate sometimes takes a hand and things work out better than if we had a dream realized. Crossroads help us grow as people. Follow your heart, life is good. The outcome may not always be what we thought, but it is infinitely better to love and fail then never to love at all.

Until tomorrow,
Becky
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It never fails to amaze me how kind people are. My birthday was filled with many acts of love and affection, and wanted to share a few with you.

My daughter tried all day long to get a floral delivery to me at work. The problem with that was I work in a different town every day, usually in a very rural town. She lives in a big town in Connecticut, so wasn't prepared for the fact there was no floral shop in town that could fill the order. The FTD people finally found a town twenty miles from where I was working to bring the flowers, but when they arrived with them the office help told them there was no one by that name working there. I was upstairs. So they took the flowers back and the order was cancelled. Two hours and several phone calls later, a truck finally pulled into my drive with the bouquet. Which was beautiful. I was on the phone to my daughter when they came. Although it had been a stressful day for her, we were able to laugh about it.

My outside cat Chicky left a little dead field mouse for me on the door mat. Oh yeah, that was great. I know, I know. It is how cats show their affection. Yuk. Mom got rid of it for me. Thank goodness.

Mom, Rocky and I shared a pizza and a cold one for dinner. Quiet yes, but nice. I had the surprise of John posting a birthday picture for me, and they sent a gift. I had numerous phone calls, cards, hugs, and good wishes. I want to thank all of you as well for your comments and emails. I feel loved all over, and it is a wonderful feeling.

Happy Tuesday!
Until tomorrow,
Becky
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Today is just another day to the world. The sun will rise and fall, babies will be born, people will die. For 52 years it has been special to me because it is the day my mother gave me life. For that I am grateful. God has blessed me with so much, and I hope that my life reflects that love and gratitude.

My birthday memories are filled with homemade birthday cakes in various shapes that mom baked for me over the years. Childhood parties which carried me through to the years I had children of my own to bake birthday cakes for. So far as celebrations go, I would have to say that my 50th birthday party in New Orleans two years ago has to be the best. I had such a wonderful time marking a big milestone in my life. I was surrounded by family and friends, and as usual I enjoyed every moment.

Today I am working, so will be taking a chocolate birthday cake to work. It is the tradition there that the birthday person provides the treat. Today as I reflect on my life and celebrate it I will be grateful for all of the wonderful and special people I count as family and friends. I love you more than you know, and you give me strength, joy, and purpose.

It just may be a coincidence that today is also kick butt Monday! Have a great one everyone!

Until tomorrow,
Becky
p.s. Thanks to my brother John for posting a birthday picture from my 50th. As usual, my beauty had faded from the influence of strong drink! Great memories.
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Happy Birthday Becky

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I have a plaque in my home office that says "Friends Always Find An Open Door."

My family loves me, and I am grateful and happy about that. Many people don't have that luxury. Among my family members are also good friends. We enjoy each other immensely and stand by each other when times get rough.

There are special people in my life however that I call Friend. They make me laugh, tolerate my happy-go-lucky spirit, and are there when the chips are down. Thank goodness for that. When there seems to be no way to move forward, when my heart is troubled, I look at that plaque. Friends find a way. They also find welcome and comfort in my home.

It has been said that the best way to have a friend is to be one. Very good advice. When you need a smile, give one. They always come back to you.

Happy Friday.
Becky
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On our fourth day of Spring, snow is headed our way. I guess that when March came in so meekly we should have known we would have to battle everything in the book to reach April.

We did have a little respite from the cold wind and rain yesterday afternoon, but it is to be short lived. I know that while the spring blooms and baby calves made it through the last jolt of cold weather they must be weary of it. And Napoleon. What must he be thinking? Mom told me last night that when she steps out of the house three cats follow her and Napoleon follows them. It is so funny.

I am at the office today for some paperwork, so of course I baked a cake. They are sending out for BBQ sandwiches, which is good since the weather is going to be bad. I have to leave early, so you all have a good day. Soak up some sunshine for us!

Until tomorrow,
Becky
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I hope when I pass from this life that I am remembered for my ability to laugh and enjoy the days I was given. There have been times of great sorrow, tragedy, and pain, but that is just the way life is. The important thing to remember is that those times pass and life goes on.

There is a man at work who invariably comes from the back of the building in the morning to tell me he can hear me laughing all over the building. I think he means it to be a put down, but I am happy to hear it. The office is filled with people who endure their eight hours and leave. Their faces reflect their unhappiness. It seems to irritate those people when others are happy, so obviously I draw their fire.

I can't seem to help it. I find life fun. Although my older brother hates it, when I visit him in KC I greet people on the sidewalk, in stores, and restaurants. Come to think of it I think my friend Diane also finds that odd. It is a Smalltown thing I think, but when I remember back I have always been that way. I was born with a certain joie de vivre. Joy of life. My brother John understands and shares the philosophy.

Some people sound rusty when they laugh. Have you noticed that? They don't do it often enough to sound comfortable with it. I take that as a challenge. People feel better when they are having fun, don't you think? This has been backed up by medical fact.

Enjoy your day, find joy in the simple things, and smile, chuckle, and LAUGH! The day will fly by.

Until tomorrow,
Becky
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Our first day of spring turned into a battle for the spring flowers that are popping up everywhere. We had a cold front push in rain that turned into ice pellets in the night. The wind howled around the house, the majestic white pines creaked, and the rain and occasional ice hit the side of the house.

I always think of the little animals and birds, Napoleon in particular, when it is cold and rainy. What was to be a celebration of sun and warmth turned into a struggle for the new buds and flowers. As I left for work yesterday morning I noticed the daffodils, creeping phlox, and grandma's hyacinth bravely waving in the wind and being pelted with cold rain.

All day we had rain and wind. The temperatures never warmed, and by the time I came home from work, I fully expected snow or ice to ensue. I had seen ice hanging in the trees of the woods as I drove home, and added to the fog, it was more a winter scene than the first day of spring.

This morning we are looking at another day of the same. Hang on, brave little soldiers! Spring is indeed coming. Your bright blooms warm my heart with joy, and stand as a promise that persevering will be rewarded with spring.

Although the forecast is for 20's tonight with possible ice, I have faith that the little flowers will survive. A good lesson for us all. Have a wonderful day, and I hope that you are enjoying the beauty of spring wherever you are.

Until tomorrow,
Becky
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As you all have probably been experiencing for yourselves, Blogger has been down to fix some problems. I am hoping that this actually makes it to the posting stage, so you can see that I am still alive and well.

Rocky is adjusting to being home again, and am sure that he will continue to improve as the days go forward. We are still waiting the test results, which is wearing on everyone. Please continue to pray for him, and for his nurse, mom.

Napoleon is still with us, although it is a miracle. He hasn't learned the danger of the road and the vehicles that travel it very well. He continues to enjoy bread as his snack of choice.

I will be shorthanded at work all week, so I have to rush. Just wanted to try and get something posted before the black hole of Blogger Maintenance opened back up and swallowed my post.

This is kick butt Monday, so go out there and shake things up.
Until tomorrow,
Becky
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I think it safe to say that being in the hospital is not Rocky's forte. While he has devoted much of his time to getting out of bed, today may be the day they finally let him come home. He has progressed well after the first two days of worry over the kidney function.

According to mom, he is eating soft food and all systems are go. I am waiting on her report after the Dr. visits the room this morning, but if all is well, there will be joy in the camp. We still have no reports on the biopsies and various other tests at this point, but after being released by the surgeon, he will be handed over to the oncologist for treatment.

I have been busy taking care of all of their critters. Napoleon narrowly missed being road kill this morning crossing our country road. He had been over seeing what the new neighbors were doing and ran across the road when I arrived to get his morning bread. If the neighbors don't kill him for perching on their pickup first, he will undoubtedly meet an untimely end at the wrong end of a car or truck. He has no idea how dangerous the road is.

I hope that mom will be home to post for you this evening, but until she does, you can catch updates here. Please continue to pray, as he isn't a very good patient, and mom needs rest.

Until next time,
Becky
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Happy St. Patrick's Day!

This is the one day of the year when everyone is Irish, and it is a day of fun, laughter and friendship. After the week we have had, its time.

I got the latest from mom last night about Rocky. He hasn't been sleeping, but after a little sleuth work he hasn't been getting all of the medication he is used to getting at home. That was a simple fix, so hopefully he had a good nights sleep last night.

He is taking a liquid diet, and is up walking around the four square hallway that surrounds the nurse's station. Each day now they take away more of the support equipment and he is getting stronger. It is a much welcome thing, I can tell you. We are hopeful that he will be able to come home soon.

Once again we are thankful for your thoughts and prayers, and know that is what turned the tide when the going got rough. Just a note about Vicky- she has been transferred to Springfield, which is a much larger town and has good hospitals. I will keep you updated on her as well.

Have a wonderful St. Paddy's day. Have fun, be safe, and I'll see you back here with updates as I have them.

Until then,
Becky
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Good morning to everyone. I would like to personally thank you for thoughts and prayers on our behalf conerning Rocky. I was certainly glad that mom posted after coming home last night from the hospital. It gives me hope that things are finally on the upswing.

We really like the surgeon. He is very capable and a top notch guy. The problems begin once he leaves. Our local hospital is known for being inept. While there are some wonderful people there, things flow at a snails pace. If family isn't there to prod the help, things wouldn't get done.

Today I am leaving Rocky to mom and his daughter Holly and returning to work. There are a number of things that require my attention, and others who need off. There will be plenty of times ahead when I will be needed more. Now that Rocky is on the mend, I will get back on track and turn my attention to my job. I have been off since last Thursday, so it is time.

I am off to get a hot cup of coffee and begin the process. Wouldn't do to be late my first day back. Again, thanks for your prayers. I am sure it is the reason Rocky has turned the corner. Also, thanks to John for posting updates. It was a big help.

Until tomorrow,
Becky
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Due to severe weather in KC, Smalltown, and all points in between over the weekend, I waited until early Monday morning to come home for Rocky's surgery. I drove hard and made it in time to talk to him before he was taken into surgery. Mom was sitting in the waiting room by herself, so she was glad to see a familiar face.

I would have to say that I have never had better coffee in a hospital before. They volunteer in the surgical waiting area was really nice, and kept us going with hot coffee. Two of Rocky's family also came, so we were able to visit while we waited for news.

The surgery went faster than we had thought it would, taking only two hours or so. The surgeon said that they only took a third of the colon instead of half, and that it was almost completely blocked. Rocky's quality of life should be 100% improved now, once he recovers from the surgery. The good news we were hoping for about the liver didn't come. There is widespread cancer in the liver, so chemo is the only option. Surgery wouldn't do any good and nothing could be gained by it. So. It will be a week before the results of biopsies are in, and he didn't even want us wasting energies on that. There is much to do taking care of Rocky at this point, so we will take up that cause and let the good Lord take care of the rest.

We appreciate your continued thoughts and prayers on Rocky's behalf, and I will do my best to keep you informed. My friend lost his dad on Friday, and the funeral was yesterday. Due to Rocky's surgery I wasn't able to attend. Vicky is still alive and still fighting, but she was greatly diminished after coding last week. The ventilator is the only thing keeping her alive at this point, but she is awake.

Well, I need to get around. I wanted to let you know the news before I left for the day. I will see you in the morning....here on my country road.

Until then,
Becky
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Good morning all. I am on my way out the door this morning for KC. As you may remember, I had to postpone my trip due to the unexpected snowstorm a few weeks ago. It just so happens that it isn't a good time now either, but I have to make the trip.

I will be seeing the tax accountant, having my tires rotated, and visiting my friends and family. The time will fly by, and I will be coming back home before I know it. Rocky's surgery is Monday, so I wanted to be here for that. Mom and I make a pretty good nursing staff.

I don't have any updates for you on those I am concerned about, but I am in contact with everyone, so I should have news when I return. Stay well and be safe, and I'll see you in a few days.....here on my country road.

Until then,
Becky
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This has been a week for battles.

Of course you all know about Rocky's diagnosis. I wrote about hope, which was on my heart and mind because of his situation. We are more hopeful than we were on Friday, but are not letting our guard down. Cancer is a wiley foe. We do have hope, and are determined. Mom will be keeping everyone updated.

I wrote on Monday of updates, one about Vicky. She was taken to the hospital yesterday, and I was called last night by my coworker that she is again fighting for her life. They didn't expect that she would survive the night.

I have also written of another friend whose dad is fighting cancer. The family was called yesterday. He is very near death, and wasn't expected to last more than a day or two at most. He was diagnosed three years ago and has fought a long and valiant battle.

Our friend Ellen also has fought long and hard. Cancer can attack the body, but the human spirit is triumphant. It is amazing what a positive attitude, a cheerful outlook, and faith can do. She is a good example of never giving up.

One thing is certain. Prayer changes things. I would ask on behalf of all of these dear ones that you would offer a prayer for their situations. I will keep you updated as I hear news. They are very fortunate that the internet and world of blogging have increased their prayer support. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers.

Until tomorrow,
Becky
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Most of the time we are consumed with the day to day business of living. There are jobs, spouses, family, friends, mortgages, hobbies, good times, and bad times. Much of our day is predetermined by the myriad of obligations that fall on our shoulders.

It is easy to deal with the good times. There is joy. Happiness. Laughter. Hope. A full heart. There is a deal breaker for good times....Bad times. The loss of a job. Financial reversal. Illness. The loss of a friend or family member. A broken heart.

Bad times tell us two things. What kind of a person we are deep inside, and what kind of person others think we are. The outward persona others see on a day to day basis is shaped by who we are deep inside. How we respond to others and life in general, good news, and bad news, is shaped by that inner person. Others are drawn to a positive attitude, a sense of humor, depth of character, and hope. When bad things happen to them you are the one they seek for comfort. Because of that person we are deep inside, we can respond to others in their time of distress without reservation.

When we invest ourselves in others on a daily basis, our cup doesn't come up empty when bad news comes to our door. This week someone I love and is close to me was hit with the worst news you can get. Terminal cancer. A first there was shock, denial, disbelief, and tears. After a good nights sleep, determination and hope bloomed. That inner person began to emerge.

What a difference a couple of days make. When the human spirit is blindsided and we are knocked to our knees, hope rises to the top. After the initial diagnosis, there are other doctors to consult and a course of treatment to be determined. If you want to see the best of a person, just watch them when the chips are down. Once others begin to hear the news, strength begins to pour in. Prayers are spoken, good thoughts and offers of help are offered, and you begin to see your value in the actions of others.

The triumph of the human spirit is inspiring. Is there still fear of the unknown? Absolutely. Uncertainty of the days to come? Sure. Lack of love, support, or friendship? Never. Why? Hope. There is a tomorrow, friends and loved ones to be the strength we need when ours falters, and God is still in charge. Thank goodness there is always Hope.

Until tomorrow,
Becky
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One of the things about an online journal of this nature is that as situations resolve themselves I may forget to give you the outcomes. In the off chance that you have worried, struggled, or cheered with me, here are a few updates....

Many of you remember Vicky, the sister of my coworker. She was at deaths door two months ago, and not expected to live through the night. She is still alive, home, and enjoying life. While she is bedfast, she is a miracle. Her prognosis is still terminal, but thank goodness for people who are faithful to pray.

The situation I endured for four years at work has come to a resolution. The worker that was causing so much disruption was transferred to the other crew, and now I have a much better working situation. I feel that it is only a matter of time before there is more trouble, but at least I don't have the daily stress I did for so long.

Scaredy, my outside cat come home for a few days last summer, but left again when he saw Chicky. He looked fat and in good shape, so am hoping that he has found a new home where he gets a lot of love.

Matt is still in my life, but is a world traveler now. Since I work, I have to settle for the times he visits Smalltown. At present he is in Australia. Many of you have emailed me about him, so rest assured that the story continues.

My book is half edited and reentered into Word. I have it saved this time, and is backed up. Life interferes with the progress, but I am determined. The author I was to speak with is hard to make connections with, as she is on tour with her twentieth book. I will keep trying.

My little grandson Brady is due to go to Saint Louis next week for a consultation on his feet. As you may remember, he was born with two extra toes, and since they have bones in them, removing them will be quite an ordeal.

I think that is all, but if there is something that I have written about I didn't mention, let me know. It is hard for me to remember! Since this is kick butt Monday, have a great one.

Until tomorrow,
Becky
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Blogger was having an issue yesterday morning, and after trying almost an hour to post something I gave up to get ready for work. At least this morning I go in on the first try.

My cat Paddy has taken to walking back and forth on my desk between me and the monitor. On the return trip she walks over my hands while I am typing. If I don't stop and pet her she just stands there until I do. It is exceedingly frustrating.

This morning I promised cake at the office. Actually I promised chocolate cake, but I have no buttermilk or cocoa. The local grocery store doesn't even open until seven, so it looks like they will have to settle for blueberry coffee cake.

For some odd reason I dreamed terrible dreams all night. Every once in a great while that happens, and I wake up worn out. The good thing is that it's Friday. Hopefully the coffee is ready by now and while the cake is baking I can brace myself for the day.

Happy TGIF to all of you, and I'll see you back here in the morning.

Until then,
Becky
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As I walked by the front window yesterday morning I noticed Napoleon sitting out on his old perch by the patio. The sun was shining, and he had his feathers spread drying them. I was surprised to see him, as he usually stays close to mom and Rocky's house.

When I came out of the house to go to work, he walked over to say hello. He was curious about what I was putting in the car of course, but he is also used to getting a treat anytime mom walks out of the house. I had my hands full, and didn't have a thing for him.

The last thing I do before leaving for work is let Chicky out of the garage. While Napoleon has all of mom's cats buffaloed, he remains afraid of Chicky. Hard to figure why, but I knew the minute I opened the door the chase would be on.

As I opened the door, Chicky spied Napoleon. Immediately she took off, and Napoleon started honking and flying around trying to get to a rooftop and safety. Instead Chicky chased him all the way around the garage, Napoleon honking all the way. As I was getting into the car I saw Napoleon running back toward mom's house as fast as his little feet could take him.

I suppose it is good for him to have his proud peacock feathers ruffled once in a while, as he certainly rules the roost down there. It is obvious that Chicky is in charge.....here on my country road.

Happy Wednesday,
Becky
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