Howdy

[Hey You]

Checking in this morning on my day off from work :smile: feels sooo good having a good nites sleep and waking up refreshed. Praise God that I don't have to worry about how I "acted" last nite. :wink: A thanks to those that commented on my post yesterday and yes, things happen in every day life and that is just what it is, everyday life happenings...not reasons to drink or use :smile:. Pouring poison into a soul's body really only covers "things" up for a short while and ends up compounding the issue at hand with a hang-over, regret, remorse, bad taste in the mouth, etc...I am glad to have control over "ME", with my Father Gods help, in putting my addiction with alcohol down underneath me and finally growing up...

(1) Make sobriety priority number one...
(2) Take sobriety one day, one hour, one minute, one second at a time...
(3) Don't take that first drink...

Remember, that in order for a soul to "quit" drinking alcohol, one has to "stop" drinking it...my 'borrowed' message for the day.

Have a good one...
"Easy Does It"

[yukonm]

Glad that you continue to check in and are embracing the program. Thanks for sharing :42:

[Hey You]

Howdy -
Checking in is no problem now that I am become a 'little' familiar with navigation of the website :wink: I have found that posting most everyday helps me be accountable, gives me strength and courage to keep me on the straighten path of my journey...I read and post comments in another website that I visit, but am finding that I 'need' to expand myself, if ya know what I mean :smile: I am hoping that I can meet others with similar "problems" as I have found through out the years, that souls with "poison" addictions have different stories, but are so very much the same. So with that being said, I am welcome to "befriend" any souls interested in sharing support. During the work week, I will not be able to enter act with posting or checking in till the later part of the day, unless I get up reallllly early in the morning, and I doubt that will happen, as I really like to sleep in till the last possible moment :281: I will be able to read posts through the day tho, but will have to reply in the evening, as "big brother" is watching internet activity at work...Anyhow, am checking-in, everyone have blessed and sober Supper Bowl Sunday.

Have a good one...
"Easy Does It"

[MajestyJo]

Glad you are sharing. Time of day does not matter. Mine can be 3 a.m. or 3 p.m. just as easily as 9 a.m. or 9 p.m. I have a sleeping disorder, either I sleep or don't sleep and often sleep when everyone else is awake.

Here is a train to go on your track!

http://www.animated-gifs.eu/transportation-trains/0011.gifhttp://www.animated-gifs.eu/transportation-trains/0012.gif

[Hey You]

Thanks for the train... :smile:

[captpaulge]

Good day to you HEY YOU. A day at a time we figure things out.

[Hey You]

Check'n in on this fine Monday and a Monday it was...long day at the office, but did get a project off my plate. I don't have much to say, as am feeling a little wore down. I know that I'm suppose to feel all refreshed after a weekend off from work but could just crawl into bed and go to sleep...maybe I need my nightly nap before bedtime early tonite :smile:. I will feel better after I eat. I popped in on my other sobriety website I visit and checked in there also tonite. :15: Reading and posting daily does so much for ones soul, it is really unbelieved how much it helps...Of course, this is only in my opinion. Well, like I said I'm check'n in and am going to cruise around a little bite and see how things work...question: What is the proper way to post? A New Tread or Post Reply or what??? :undecided: Guess I will figure it out :smile:.

Have a good one...
"Easy Does It"

[yukonm]

Hi There,
Glad you are checking in. To post a new thread-just go to the forum, look at the top left of the first post and you will see "New Thread" or "Post Reply". Please let me know if you need more help navigating the site.

[MajestyJo]

If you want to respond to what you see printed, use the reply button. If you have your own thoughts and you want to share or introduce a new topic, press new thread.

[Hey You]

Hi,
Just let’n ya'll know that I finally found a little time to check-in :17:, it is getting a little late here on the west coast, have a belly full of food, the wood burning stove heating up and ready to unwind…thanks to yukonm and MajestyJo for ya’ll trying to help me out with navigation on the web site, but don’t really knowthe best place for me to be yet...I do want to reach out to souls in need and offer support…I got ‘called out” today, in a post on the other sobriety web site I visit and have been visiting for the last 8 months. I had to straighten things out and stand up for what I believe…things can be “interesting” in sobriety :smile:. Anyhow, I have accepted a friend request today, that maybe good one, hope so:smile:. Sorry for the ramble, will leave it at that…

God Bless and have a good one…
“Easy Does It”

[yukonm]

Wishing you a great day and praying you will find a place where you want to post. Thanks for checking in. :42:

[Hey You]

It's Wednesday and this is my Wednesday check-in...YaHoo :tongue: - it was a good day, was busy which is a good thing and it was a payday which was an other good thing :wink: I hope that all that stop by, had a good day as well...

I have decided for the time bein', that "Check-In", is as good as place as any to post a comment or two and then branch out from here. This website has a few forums to choose from and I was a little overwhelming at first. The other website that I visit is a blog and a soul just reads and posts. One can read the archives back to the first comments posted and read to the present. A soul can post ones feelings, thoughts, fears, joys, ups, downs or anything one wants to comment on. One can offer daily support, ideas, comfort, advice, etc. It is really a very simple web site, which can be good thing, as many of us are told to "keep it simple"...:smile: Anyhow I've check-in, feel good about it, I'm a like'n this website. :15:

Today was a good day, the "now" is a good time, yesterday is gone and tomorrow has yet to come...life is good :smile: No attacks from "the beast" today...

Trust in Father God, Make Sobriety Priority Number One, stay away from that first drink and the rest can and will fall in to place...

Have a good one...
"Easy Does It"

[MajestyJo]

Thank you for shairng. Really liked this line, it just says so much about how I work my program. It is today and in the moment. For me, even this afternoon and evening is the future. It just hasn't got here yet. As a friend of mine says, "If you want to make God laugh, tell Him your plans."

I would make plans and berate myself if I didn't accomplish them. My sponsor said, "Did you ever think that just maybe your God had other plans for you?"

Today was a good day, the "now" is a good time

[Hey You]

YaY...:tongue:...It's Thursday and time for me to check-in :1:...don't know where the week when to, my calendar tells me that tomorrow is Friday. Have been so busy this week and have so much to get done, Oh well, I can only do, what I can do...It is getting closer to Sunday and my lady will be coming home, sure have missed her this week, am waiting on her to check-in with me, should be with in the next hour :15: or so. Fire in the wood burner isn't taking off as fast as it usually does and is kind of chilly this evening, have a feeling just about the time the house warms up, its going to be bed time...It was a good day again today and got another project off my over flowing plate, still have a ways to go before I can have a breather. I will just muddle through like always :wink:. God really never lets one take on more than what one can handle, I firmly believe that. When I started my mission that I was appointed to, I knew that there would be times like this and I have had many such times :smile:. I am an estimator for a wood working company that builds custom made cabinets and cabinetry for banks, doctor offices and various other places. One of my missions in life, is to keep people working so that they don't have to go live under a bridge in a cardboard box and look for handouts from others…enough about that, am checking in for the day and am going to carry out the rest of my evening :smile:.

Have a good one...
"Easy Does It"

[Hey You]

Howdy it's Friday...I'm checking -in :cool: Had a fast moving day and all when well. :28: Everything got done at work and even got a good start on one of my Monday projects. I had a few in sites today, had to stop and really thank Father God for watching over me and give Him some praise...Life is kind of strange sometimes with its twists and turns, it is so true that everything is in Gods hands. I'll sign off with that...

Have a good one...
"Easy Does It"

[Hey You]

Al'right'y then...its Saturday and I'm a check'n in. The sun is a shine'n, feel'n rested from a good nites sleep. Thought that I would like to sleep in this morning, being as it is a day off from work n'all, but didn't happen...who wants to sleep their time off from work anyway, right. Have a list of stuff to do this weekend, like split some firewood, go for a motorcycle ride, get something for my Sweetheart for Valentines Day, give my aging mother a call as her birthday is Sunday and so on and so forth...Have had my fill of coffee, read the newspaper, called my lady, warmed up the house, cleaned the pool, did dishes, picked up a bit and need to get crack'n on splitting some of that firewood before it get's to warm outside. I luv it, mid 60's F. during the day and mid to lower 30's F. at nite...don't miss living in the central mid-western states at all. Haven't shoved a scope of snow in around 15 years and don't miss it abit, well maybe just a little, but not the cold that comes with the snow or do I miss the snow...

Well off to take on the rest of the day, may be back later, we'll see.

Have a good one...
"Easy Does It"

**Food for thought**
"It's either a long journey to get where you're traveling to, or it's been a long journey traveled to get where you're at?"

[MajestyJo]

Hope your day was a good one. Snow here, I don't have to shovel it, but have trouble getting through it with my walker. I have gotten stuck twice this winter.

[Hey You]

:D It's an other sober Sunday I get to chalk up on my list of past sober Sunday's:D. I know that the day isn't over with yet, but I'm 99.9% sure that it will finish in a sober way! As like many of us that take our sobriety seriously, we know there is that chance of slipping off that slippery slope and falling. I'm fairly confident that, that .1% margin of chance that I have, will not convince me to drink today (hope that made some sort of sense). Saturdays and Sundays "were" big drink days for this drunk...still don't know why or how m'Lady put up with it/me for years, she must luv and care for me a little bit. With that being said, A VERY BIG THANK YOU and many praises to Father God in watching over me and leading m'Lady into my life. Anyhow, it is getting late in the morning, I have a few things to get in order before m'Lady gets home today. She and her adult son were visiting her sister (and Auntie) for a week out of state, hope that the weather finds favor with them and they have a smooth journey back...just received a text message a moment ago, confirming the she and her son have just merged onto the freeway and expect to arrive home around 6 or 7 o'clock this evening...I take it that her son is driving, as I KNOW that she would not be driving and texting at the same time:170:. I may 'pop' in later to catch up and maybe a small post, will C?...

[Hey You]

Hey, missed Monday check-in but not all was lost. I usually go for the lap top after evening chores to check in to my web sites, check email, so on and so forth....early Monday morning I had given my yearly Valentine's Day live plant gift, card and other goody's to my sweetheart in the morning with our morning cup of coffee before I left to go to work...Having thoughts that I had done my "Valentine's duty", I left and that was that, only to come home from work to find that the evening was planed by my sweetheart and none of the plans involved me being on a lap top. With that being said, I'm a check'n-in on Tuesday evening...today was a good day and hope ya'll had a good one also!

[Hey You]

Wednesday check-in. Was a long day at work today, went in early to get a bid due ready to be sent off by 9:00am. Think that it went well as the contractor called back to get more info and told us that they were using our numbers. Is a very good thing!!! Started working on a bank remodel and have projects lined up throughout next week. The work was never an excuse to drink, cause I always felt good about doing what I do. I drank because I liked to drink and the "high" it gave me. I was never one to drink one or two drinks, what was the sense in that, I had to feel it and I had to feel it really good, cause I wanted to and that was that. Plain and simple. I had let my addict voice that lives inside me take control of me, and whenever "it" wanted to be feed (a drunk, not just a drink), it got feed...I am so glad and thankful that I got so sick and tired of being sick in tired that last time, wanting to finally grow up and take back control of my life and let my Father God get back into the drivers seat. Things still happen in life, but then that is life. A drink never makes things better, it makes things worse and if things are going good, it makes things bad...so if ya are in a struggle, lean into it, face it head on with a clear head and mind...

[Butterfly Woman]

Peace on the journey Hey

Hugs

[Hey You]

I have a short story that I would like to share that I read sometime ago, I'm sure that some of ya have seen this one before and I don't know who the author is, but I feel compelled to share:

Just up the road from my home is a big field, with two horses in it. From a distance, each horse looks like any other horse. But if you stop by to observe, you will notice something quite amazing. Looking into the eyes of the bigger horse will disclose that he is completely blind. His caring owner has chosen not to have him put down, but has made a good home for him in lush pastures. This alone is a miracle...

If you stand nearby and listen, you hear the sound of a bell. Looking around for the source of the sound, you will see that it comes from a smaller horse in the field. Attached to the horse's halter is a small bell. It lets the blind friend know where the other horse is, so he can follow. As you stand and watch these two friends, you'll see that the horse with the bell is always checking on the blind horse, and the blind horse listens for the bell, then slowly walks to where the other horse is, trusting that he will not be led astray. When the horse with the bell returns to the shelter of the barn each evening, it stops occasionally, looking back, making sure the blind friend isn't too far behind.

Like the kind owner of these two horses, God does not throw us away because we are not perfect or when we have problems or challenges. He watches over us- even bringing others into our lives to help us when we are in need. Sometimes we are the helpless blind horse being guided by the ringing bells of those who God places in our lives. Other times we are like the guide-horse, helping others find the way home.
Good friends are like that... you may not always see them, but you know they are there. Please listen for my bell and I'll listen for yours.

Remember... be kinder than necessary - everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.

[Butterfly Woman]

Wonderful story...I like that and it is so very true...Thank You for sharing that

[Hey You]

Well, its Friday and I’m a check’n-in on a rainy evening. Sometimes, I wish our house wasn’t so well insulated so I could hear the rain’s pitter patter on the roof, like I used to as a child growing up in Central-Eastern, smalltown Nebraska, USA. But then, sometimes a soul has to take the good with the bad and am I’m very, very thankful and grateful that our warm house IS well insulated, which is a good thing. I have high hopes for this weekend (as I do for all weekends) and have a plan or two in mind, but one can never know what the future will bring and unfold. I hope that ya’ll don’t mind me sharing a short story or two that I run across every now and then again. I have read a few, they are not all exactly like the story that I shared yesterday, but all will have some food for thought. Some short stories that I may share might be directed at sobriety and others directed at life. Living life sober, is really what life is all about. Being a drink'n drunk, is not normal, even though the ’world’ now days tries to portray it as such. With that being said, I’ll be signing off for the evening, God Bless…

[Butterfly Woman]

I enjoy the stories Hey...So please keep on sharing

[Hey You]

Hey…Saturday check-in. Think that it will be a partly cloudy day today, with a small rain showers here and there throughout the day. Really need to crank up the riding lawnmower and knock some weeds down to size and spray the darn things around the farm. Problem is that it is way to wet, the ground is saturated and soft, would get the little tractor lawnmower stuck. By the time it dries out, more rain will come and by the time I get a dry weekend to get it mowed, it will look like a jungle. It happens every year, one would think that one would get use to it, except the yearly happening, not let it bother oneself and deal with the yard issue when one can do it. Well, I am very thankful that I am looking at the over-growth with clear eyes, clear mind, clean soul, being also grateful I’m not stumbling around in the muck, falling down and making a mess of it all and myself. I ‘will’ find other, more enjoyable, sober driven tasks to fulfill my day with today…

>>>>>>>>>>

I have a few thoughts on my mind that I am going to share, a soul can take them or leave them::
To souls that have stumbled, fallen, are dusting themselves off, have jumped back upon their feet and have stepped back onto the path of their journey, traveling to sobriety. Question: “Don’t ya kind of get tired, drained of strength and energy of push'n that cart load of crap back to the end of the line and have'n to start over, push'n that cart down an uneven, rocky path?” A little advise from a drunk that take his travels seriously on this journey of sobriety. If ya really want to quit drinking alcohol, ya have to stop pour'n the poison past your lips and swallowing it. (I heard this statement stated before an I am not taking credit for this quote but keep the saying in my toolbox and continue to past it on.) This statement is plain, simple and to the point…

Many a soul, have convinced themselves that they ’can’t’ stop drinking, when it is really ‘won’t’ stop drinking…Try the 7T’s - - Take Time To Think The Thing Through (also a quote by others)…One might ask themselves; “What is the real reason, why ‘you’ think that ‘you’ want to quit drinking alcohol?” Is it because you woke up with a real bad hangover one morning and your commitment is done with when ya feel all better two or three days from now? Is your spouse angry with ya because ya got stink’n drunk the nite before and is threatened ya with actions of some sort? Did ya have an accident with your vehicle or trouble with the law when you were drunk? Are ya think’n of sobriety cause you are sick and tired of being sick and tired and are looking for a better life without alcohol? What is your real commitment to your sobriety? Do “you” really, truly, honestly want to be sober and are willing to muster up the courage to take sobriety on? If your not serious about this sobriety stuff, I guarantee, without a shadow of a doubt, that one will fail and one will be in a fight for one’s very life. I ‘had’ been in this very same battle for thirty plus (30+) years…I, myself, have made a firm and solid choice to finish out the remainder of this life on planet Earth sober, not intoxicated, no ands’ or ifs’ about it. If a soul really wants sobriety and really wants to put the poison behind oneself, one will find it possible and doable. One will hear or read from time to time, “That’s OK to ’slip’, fall, to skin up your knees and elbows, to get up, learn from the ‘fall’ and carry on”. Myself, I have spent way too many years practicing this and for me to have a “slip” is not excusable, nor will a "slip" be tolerated. So the only way for ‘me’ keep ‘my’ commitment to ‘my’ sobriety, is to STAY away from that first drink, the rest will and has fallen into place…

[Hey You]

Howdy, Sunday check-in...Don't have a lot of time to post a comment of any size, but managed a moment of two to check-in. Will 'try' to pop in this evening and post a thought or two, maybe a short story I read the other nite...

[Butterfly Woman]

Have a great day

Hugs

[Hey You]

Good even'n all, here's a short story I came across the other day that I would like to share:

Lessons In Life
~~By Unknown

There was a man who had four sons. He wanted his sons to learn not to judge things too quickly. So he sent them each on a quest, in turn, to go and look at a pear tree that was a great distance away.

The first son went in the winter, the second in the spring, the third in summer, and the youngest son in the fall.

When they had all gone and come back, he called them together to describe what they had seen.The first son said that the tree was ugly, bent, and twisted. The second son said no it was covered with green buds and full of promise. The third son disagreed; he said it was laden with blossoms that smelled so sweet and looked so beautiful, it was the most graceful thing he had ever seen. The last son disagreed with all of them; he said it was ripe and drooping with fruit, full of life and fulfillment.

The man then explained to his sons that they were all right, because they had each seen but only one season in the tree’s life.

He told them that you cannot judge a tree, or a person, by only one season, and that the essence of who they are and the pleasure, joy, and love that come from that life can only be measured at the end, when all the seasons are up.

If you give up when it’s winter, you will miss the promise of your spring, the beauty of your summer, fulfillment of your fall.

Moral:
Don’t let the pain of one season destroy the joy of all the rest.
Don’t judge life by one difficult season.

[Butterfly Woman]

Great story...Love it each time I hear it

Thanx

Hugs

[Hey You]

Howdy, I found a moment to check-in. Hope ya'll are do'n good. I'm fine, just a little busy and could end up a lot busier, which is a good thing...keeps me out of trouble. Anyhow, I wanted to pop in and let ya'll know that I'm still around and haven't drifted off anywhere. :170:

[MajestyJo]

Thank you for sharing. You reminded me of what I sponsor told me many years ago. I complained about having too much to do and not enough hours in the day! I laugh when I think of it! He said, "Be grateful for busy! Remember when you used to make the hours go away."

I am powerless over people, places and things. I can get addicted to busy. Busy was overwhelming in the past and I would use to take away the feelings. A real healing in recovery is being able to 'live' a full day! A real reason to celebrate and be grateful in today is to do it clean and sober.

[Butterfly Woman]

It is good to be busy HEy, as long as we remember to have balance and put other things in our lives as well

Hugs to you

[Hey You]

Check'n in with a shared message in hopes of a helping thought or two for someone who can use a uplifting word:
________________

Relative to the whole scheme of things, your life span could be compared to lighting a candle and immediately blowing it out. In other words, life is short – very short. Missing out on any of the joys life offers is a tragedy.

If your life is being controlled by your fears, you are most certainly cheating yourself.
Courage is the mental muscle that conquers fear. Like all muscles, the more you use them the stronger they become. Courage is not something you are born with, it must be developed. Individuals who fail to develop courage, remain confined in mental prisons and face each day as mental lightweights.

It has been said if you face the thing you fear, fear leaves you. For years I believed that courageous individuals had no fear. I was wrong. Eddie Richenbacher put it very well when he said, “There is no courage without fear.” We all have fear, however, not everyone becomes subservient to their fears.

There is, very likely, something you have wanted to do for years – move to another city, start your own business, apply for that better position, go after the big account. Whatever it is you should do it. Remember, life is not a practice run. This is it. A little courage leads to more.

Observe those poor souls who are without courage. They merely tiptoe through life hoping they make it safely to death.

You and I were never meant to live that way. Learn to live the way you like by no longer living as you dislike. Forge into the remainder of your days with an abundance of courage. That’s living!
~~ by Bob Proctor Author

[Butterfly Woman]

Thanx Hey...Great reminder that we do not have to be bound in place by our fears

Thanx for giving us food for thought

Have a great day
Hugs

[Hey You]

Thursday check in, am sleepy tonite, no stories to share either, sorry, have a blessed one...

[Butterfly Woman]

Hope you got some rest

Have a great day

Hugs

[Hey You]

Friday check-in, had a restful nite, had a full, fast day at work :28: and am ready for the weekend. M'Lady just suggested that we go out and grab a bite to eat, so my post is being cut short...

[Hey You]

Gooood Morning Ya'll :281:, is a chilly one out here in this part of the western pacific coastal area (under 30 degree F), my temperature thermometer is flashing a green ice alert. The TV weather news people are talk'n snow in San Francisco??? Had some snow dusting last year here in the valley, don't think the flakes made it to the ground tho and if they did, they didn' t stick around very long. If it snow here last nite, I missed it and slept thru it. Like I've stated before, I don't miss the snow we would get in the central mid-western plains states, am originally from and grew up in eastern Nebraska. I have a sober weekend planed, I have found that a soul is in more control of one's sobriety, if there is some sort of a plan in place. Even if, it's just planning to be sober at whatever happens :170: ...

[Hey You]

Howdy Ya'll, was another chilly one last nite. Temp 'maybe' get up to 50 degrees F today according to internet weather. I have just been asked what I want for brunch, put in my order and am drinking my third cup of coffee (Sunday morning is my 'big' coffee day). Was told to keep the wood burning stove ablazin', to take the day off, gel, order up some movies off Dish Network to watch on big flat screen and kick back in the lazy boy. With that being said, everyone have a blessed and safe Sunday...

[Butterfly Woman]

Enjoy your day

Hugs

[Hey You]

Am have a feeling it is going to be a long week. Keep on, keep'n on...

[MajestyJo]

Hugs!

http://www.animated-gifs.eu/avatars-100x100-bears/0062.gif

[Hey You]

Yep, it's go'n be a long week, it's only Tuesday and I'm drained. Keep on, keep'n on...

[Butterfly Woman]

One day at a time...

Hugs

[Hey You]

Soooo very true...One day at a time, sometimes, one moment at a time...

[Hey You]

A fast check-in this Thursday, have TAX appt. this evening and am in a bit of a rush, have a Blessed one...

[Hey You]

Gees, seems like I don't have time to really sit down and share to much these days and its only going to get worse as the day lite hours get longer. Will try to put in some sort of post tomorrow morning during coffee time. Life is good. Sorry for another quick check-in, but wanted to say Hi, to anybody that visits...

A really short story to read till tomorrow:

The Real Meaning Of Peace

There once was a king who offered a prize to the artist who would paint the best picture of peace. Many artists tried. The king looked at all the pictures. But there were only two he really liked, and he had to choose between them. One picture was of a calm lake. The lake was a perfect mirror for peaceful towering mountains all around it. Overhead was a blue sky with fluffy white clouds.*All who saw this picture thought that it was a perfect picture of peace. The other picture had mountains, too. But these were rugged and bare. Above was an angry sky, from which rain fell and in which lightning played. Down the side of the mountain tumbled a foaming waterfall. This did not look peaceful at all. But when the king looked closely, he saw behind the waterfall a tiny bush growing in a crack in the rock. In the bush a mother bird had built her nest. There, in the midst of the rush of angry water, sat the mother bird on her nest - in perfect peace. Which picture do you think won the prize? The king chose the second picture. Do you know why? "Because," explained the king, "peace does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble, or hard work. Peace means to be in the midst of all those things and still be calm in your heart. That is the real meaning of peace."
~~Author Unknown

[Butterfly Woman]

Awesome story Hey, and very true..thanx for sharing that

Hugs to you

[Hey You]

Well, I missed check-in at coffee time this morning, I jumped right in onto yard work as soon as possible. We had a few dry days and today was also dry. Cranked up the tractor lawn mower and knocked down the jungle. Only got stuck once, but am happy to have knocked the weeds down. Rain is moving in tomorrow and everything will get another shot of grow juice. Anyhow, I wanted to check in....

[Hey You]

Good morning ya'll - - Yep, rain moved in last nite, is still raining now and is suppose to continue to rain throughout the day. I'm on my second cup of coffee and putting a plan together for my day.
(1) No drink for me today, as drink leads to drunk.
(2) Praise Father God for life and thank Him for my sobriety yesterday.
(3) Try to take ‘things’ in stride as they come at me today.
(4) Maybe work in garage at little this afternoon (needs a clean up) and need to make some room to do a little work (customizing) on my motorcycle.
(5) Definitely spend some quality time with m'Lady.
Hope ya'll had a good nite and will have a restful, blessed day...

[MajestyJo]

Our rain turned to snow! Happy trails!

http://www.animated-gifs.eu/transportation-motorcycles/0031.gif

[Butterfly Woman]

Have a great day Hey

Look for the rainbow and the Sunlight of the spirit

Hugs to you

[yukonm]

Wishing you a wonderful day!!

[admin]

Hope you are doing well. Miss hearing from you. :42:

[Hey You]

Hey y'all, I didn't go anywhere, just been supper, supper busy and looks like it will continue this way for awhile. :28: It really is a good thing...just finding time to fit everything in is kind of frustrating, as I like to stay in touch with my sobriety web sites. (I kind of like being here.) This site and another one that I post on are tools in my toolbox, which help along with my other tools for maintaining my sobriety. It is getting a little late in the evening here, my eyes are growing heavy and I need to tend to m'Lady as she is not feeling well this evening, so I'm a check'n in...

[admin]

Great to hear from you. Sorry that your lady isn't feeling well. I pray she feels better soon. Keep us posted. :42:

[Butterfly Woman]

Hope your lad gets to feeling better soon

Have a great day

Hugs

[Hey You]

Check'n in on a Friday evening. Prayers for the tsunami victims :195: ...

[Butterfly Woman]

Warm thoughts and hugs

[Hey You]

Check'n in - - Thanks for the warm thoughts and hugs Butterfly Woman...back at ya this evening

[Hey You]

Check'n in this Sunday morning, running late, sleeping in and having to change the clocks ahead didn't help. :wink: I will try to pop in this evening and read post.

[Butterfly Woman]

Yep one hour can make a difference...but hey...we're on God's time

Maybe a power nap later on today

Whatever you do today..ENJOY!!!

Hugs

[Hey You]

Finding a moment to check in, had a fair day at work today, not to rushed and not to slow to get bored. I was glad that it rained a little last nite so that the fertilizer/weed killer I spread out this last weekend got activated. Looks like it could rain again tonite. Anyhow, just check'n in, seems that there's a small dilemma going on at the other website that I'm involved in and must go give my sober 2cents worth and maybe help a soul or two see some lite...:170:

[Butterfly Woman]

Spring is in the air

Have a great day

Hugs

[Hey You]

Gees, what's going on? The time changes a hour ahead and is seems like I don't have the time I used to have with my nose stuck in the computer. Of course, I do spend my eight hour work day, everyday planted in front of one. Well, I'm a check'n in...:smile:

[Butterfly Woman]

LOL Time changes yet somehow we still have 24 hours... We can only do the best we can. That's all that is expected of us

Have a great day

Hugs

[Hey You]

Check'n in...

[Butterfly Woman]

Happy St. Paddy's Day

Hugs

[Hey You]

Check'n in, hugs to U 2 Butterfly Woman:15:

[yukonm]

Glad that you are still checkin' in :17:

[MajestyJo]

Glad you keep stopping by.

http://www.animated-gifs.eu/transportation-motorcycles/0073.gif

[Hey You]

Check'n in, going to cruise around the site a'bit and really will try to find sometime to post something. In the meantime, I'll share a little something from a website call New Beginnings, Happy Endings:

The Promises

If we are painstaking about this phase of our development, we will be amazed before we are half way through. We are going to know a new freedom and a new happiness. We will not regret the past nor wish to shut the door on it.

We will comprehend the word serenity and we will know peace. No matter how far down the scale we have gone, we will see how our experience can benefit others. That feeling of uselessness and self-pity will disappear.

We will lose interest in selfish things and gain interest in our fellows. Self-seeking will slip away. Our whole attitude and outlook upon life will change. Fear of people and of economic insecurity will leave us. We will intuitively know how to handle situations which used to baffle us.

We will suddenly realize that God is doing for us what we could not do for ourselves. Are these extravagant promises? We think not. They are being fulfilled among us, sometimes quickly, sometimes slowly. They will always materialize if we work for them.
__________________

I don't know the author...

[Butterfly Woman]

we work for them


WORK..WORK...WORK...That's the key...the action part

Thanx for posting these

Hugs to you

[Hey You]

Check'n in...

[MajestyJo]

Should have read this earlier, had a busy one!

[Hey You]

Check'n in, had big storm blow in yesterday and last nite. Need to get on the cleanup detail, ready ourselves for the second blast and split some firewood so we can stay warm in the evenings. It is suppose to be stormy and ugly till next weekend or longer. Are April showers are early this year? I always thought that the saying said that March was suppose to came in as a 'Lion' and go out like a 'Lamb' or is it the other way around!? Maybe this means that we, in central western California won't be getting any April Showers this year??? Anyhow, have to get with my program and take on the day...

[Butterfly Woman]

Hopefully we will all be seeing the spring flowers soon

Stay warm

Peace and hugs

[MajestyJo]

Life is strange. There you are in California with snow and here I am in Ontario with no snow.

I think the saying is if March comes in like a lamb it goes out like a lion. If it comes in like a lion, it goes out like a lamb. Hope you see the lamb soon!

[Hey You]

Check'n in, not much going on today, but another sober day to put behind me... :218:

[Butterfly Woman]

Grateful you are on this sober journey with us

Hugs

[Hey You]

Check'n in on a Tuesday evening, was a beautiful day, but another storm (weather) is headed our way...

[Hey You]

Check'n in on a Wednesday evening, last nites storm missed us, did rain a little. The next one is suppose to be a big one, with lots of wind. We will see! Anyhow, I'm a check'n in...

[MajestyJo]

Must have decided to come this way. Snow finally stopped in the last hour and it is clear. Tomorrow and Friday are suppose to be cold but clear. Doesn't look like it will melt any time soon. Hopefully everything will be cleared by Friday so I can get out and about. It does look pretty though!

[Butterfly Woman]

Button down the hatches , Hey

Glad you checked in...Hopefully the wind will help to blow in the spring

Blessings and hugs

[Hey You]

Howdy, just came from taking a peek at the other sobriety website I visit and seen a post from a soul that has been posting a long time before I had started posting on it. He would be what some would call a long (old) timer. He had not posted for around three weeks or so and some of us other long (old) timers were wondering what had happened to him. Some, including myself were making remarks about him in posting different things. Was trying to draw him out and see if he was "hiding" in the back ground, not posting, just reading, as some do. Anyhow, in pops a post from him today, stating that he had been in the hospital. Come to find out he had, had a heart attack, spent 2weeks in ICU and 1week in rehab. Guess a stint failed which caused the heart attack, had a replacement, then had 2 separate bouts of congestive heart failures. Sounded to me in his post, as tho he has was very thankful to be able to submit another post to us on that website. It really got me thinking, I know it's a dangerous place for me to be, being in a thinking mode. Anyway, I have made a few cyber friends on the internet here and there. Some have disappeared, never to be heard from again and I miss them. I hope that they are OK, that things worked out for them and that they have found their way. Well, just some thoughts and I'm a check'n in...

Have a good one,
Keith

[MajestyJo]

Have met up with a few too and then they disappear. I am sure a lot of people have either forgotten me or are thinking I relapsed because I haven't been to many night meetings for a long time. I figure it is between me and my God. What many don't know is that I switch fellowship and focused on Al-Anon for my emotional sobriety. Using isn't an option. I have 3-33 reason over the years to go there.

[admin]

Hey Keith, How are you doing today? Any more word on how that fellow is doing?

I have made a few very close friends over the internet and also been able to get in touch with some old friends as well as relatives that I hadn't seen in years.

When my husband was in the Air Force and we were living on the base in Rome, NY, I met a lady in 1993 while living there and we instantly connected. We moved away from there in 1995 to another base in New Jersey but that lady and I have stayed in touch over the years talking on the phone and through email. Well last night, she and I were talking on the phone and I commented on that I had not seen a picture of her since we left the base in NY. She had never sent me a picture of her but I had sent her pictures of me over the years. Well, she asked if I had Skype and I didn't but my youngest daughter set me up last night and I was able to "see" my friend after all these years. It was wonderful. We had so much fun talking last night. My husband and my youngest daughter talked to her also. Her husband and youngest daughter talked to us also. It was great seeing all of them.

[Hey You]

I didn't get time to check-in yesterday, as a matter of fact, I didn't even turn on my PC yesterday evening. I got off work and fell in to some plans made by M'lady. I did my evening chores around the 'farm' early. Sat around chatting while we waited for her son and his girlfriend to stop by from their journey traveled to San Diego, was not a long wait. There were plans of us all meeting with M'lady's daughter and her husband at Outback Steakhouse for a get together meal celebrating M'lady getting a new job offer and opportunity. Had a very pleasant meal, I always get a grin :grin: out of watching others after they've a drink or two. Of course, back in 'my' drinking days, I would have had a few strong ones before the get together, had three or four with the meal, a few after the meal and topping in all off with making an a$$ of myself before having a few more before passing out for the nite at home. To this day I still don't know why M'lady kept me around, she must like me a little...

Hey, bluidkiti, I have not heard anything more from the soul that had the heart attack on my other website that I visit. Everyone has told him to get the rest that is need to get his strength up. I'm sure that he will check-in today sometime. I too, have Skype installed and loaded on both my laptops. I use it to talk to my daughter/daughters in Idaho and my 4 grandsons, grandsons like to play the games with me that are loaded in the Skype options. The little guys don't know how to take turns sometimes tho and I get to 'see' them fighting amongst themselves as to who gets to play with their PaPa first, the oldest one mostly wins. Sometimes, PaPa has to intervene and have "internet problems" if ya know what I mean...

Anyhow, I'm check'n in today and have to sign off for now, I have to get a start on todays program...

Have a good one,
Keith

[MajestyJo]

Glad she kept you around, she must have seen some 'good' in you.

[Hey You]

Howdy, Check'n in on a Sunday morning...

[Hey You]

Check'n in on a Monday evening, not much to say this evening. Tak'n a small break before git'n back after it be for the sun goes down...

Have a good one,
Keith

[Hey You]

To Achieve Your Dreams, Remember your ABC's
By Unknown Author

Avoid negative sources, people, places, things and habits
Believe in yourself
Consider things from every angle
Don't give up and don't give in
Enjoy life today, yesterday is gone and tomorrow may never come.
Family and Friends are hidden treasures; seek them and enjoy their riches
Give more than you planned to
Hang on to your dreams
Ignore those who try to discourage you
Just do it
Keep trying no matter how hard it seems, it will get easier
Love yourself first and foremost
Make it happen
Never lie, cheat or steal; always strike a fair deal.
Open your eyes and see things as they really are
Practice makes perfect
Quitters never win and winners never quit
Read study and learn about everything important in your life
Stop procrastinating
Take control of your own destiny
Understand yourself in order to better understand others
Visualize it
Want it more than anything
Xcelerate your efforts
You are unique of all God's creations; nothing can replace you
Zero in on your target and go for it!

Have a good one,
Keith

[Butterfly Woman]

Thank You Keith

Hugs

[recoverywfaith]

Wow....nice. Thank you for such positive inspiration.

[Hey You]

Late nite tonite, but wanted to check in...

Have a good one,
Keith

[Hey You]

Stopped work outside this evening before dark this evening and had our meal at a descent time. Heading off for a relaxing sit in front of the TV, so putting in a quick check-in...

Have a good one.
Keith

[Hey You]

Howdy, didn't get to check in yesterday as I was working on my motorcycle till late last nite, it is ready to roll, just need carburetor jet kit installed. I had, had thoughts of doing it myself, but received labor discount via snail mail from the dealership. Think I will let them do it as motorcycle carb is a lot smaller that a 4 barrel carb off a '66' Chevy Caprice to rebuild. Thought that I was going to take bike on a small cruise today, but it looks like it's go'n rain. Anyhow, y'all have a sober and safe weekend...

Have a good one,
Keith

[Hey You]

A quick check-in before tak'n on todays program...

Have a good one,
Keith

[Butterfly Woman]

Safe travels
and Peace on the journey

Hugs

[Hey You]

My journey traveled has been straight and down the middle of the road with no wavering. I've got to keep my sunglasses on as the "Light" is so bright in the NOW and looks like I'll be a look'n for a darker shade of sunglasses in the future :15: ...

Have good one,
Keith

[Butterfly Woman]

Kewl!!!!

[admin]

Hey Keith, How are you doing today?

[Hey You]

Check'n in, everything is fine, just a little busy the last few days...

[Butterfly Woman]

Good to see you
Thanx for checkin in

Hope you have a great weekend

[Hey You]

Check’n in
Been experiencing internet issues with our wireless provider They upgraded to 4G awhile back and we haven’t a connection half the time. We live far enough away from the rat race to not have luxuries like cable or high speed internet, its dial up, wireless or satellite. I can tether my laptop to my cell phone and use my data plan off it that I have with my cell phone provider, but doesn’t share well between the two of us at the same time. A few days ago I broke down and bought a “hotspot” through Sprint and can connection up to 5 wireless devices to it at the same time, seems to be working rather well so far and it is portable, the size of a credit card but thicker.

Anyhow, I have some venting to do as we got some news today that moved some big ugly boulders about that are associated with m’Lady’s and mine personal earthquake that has been shaking our world for the last several years. I’m so angry right now, I could spit nails. Just clarifies what I and others have stated before, “Just because one is sober, doesn’t mean that crap quits mess’n with ya.”

Have a good one,
Keith

[recoverywfaith]

Glad you are connected with the world again...it is nice in todays world to have. Thank you for sharing/venting...and know you and your family are in my prayers.

[admin]

Hi Hey You, I heard an oldtimer say in a meeting once that people always say sh!t happens. He said, "No, life happens. It is what you do when life happens that matters." You are very correct in saying, “Just because one is sober, doesn’t mean that crap quits mess’n with ya.” Now to get into the solution. I say that for me as well. I pray life gets better for you. :42:

[Hey You]

We had court hearing this morning, I didn't go, my water was still to hot from yesterday. M'Lady attended, things went in our favor this go around, needs to end, lawyers are the only ones benefiting from everything in the last 3-1/2 years. Still not a happy camper this evening, I'd thought everything would have come to a head 3 months ago and been done with.

I then, had to work an hour later today and have to go into work an hour earlier that normal tomorrow and more then likely work late tomorrow nite also, gosh darn the bad luck.

O,well, I will make due with it all and look at the brighter side of it all. If my company is awarded the project that I'm bidding on, the shop employees will have lots of work to do and they too, will have a good chance at getting some OT. They will get more overtime than me, but they like OT. I don't really care for it --my time off is more important to me than the money. Anyhow, I'm a check'n in...

Have a good one,
Keith

[MajestyJo]

Thank for taking the time to share. Keep coming so you don't have to come back!

[Butterfly Woman]

Hi Keith

grateful to see you checkin in and sharing.. Soundds like the poop fairy is flying overhead. Praying for you and yours..Keep the faith

Peace on the journey and hugs out to you

[Hey You]

Saturday check in, slept in a little late this morning. Been a work'n some overtime at work, hope it all was well worth time spent. It is suppose to get up to the mid 70's (F) today is a pleasant temp for outdoor doings. Coffee pot was flashing "de-scale" this morning and it takes around 4 hours to do that task, so only one cup of coffee this morning :cry:. Oh well, need to get on with my program for the day, may pop in later and see what everyones up to...

Have a good one,
Keith

[admin]

Coffee pot was flashing "de-scale" this morning and it takes around 4 hours to do that task, so only one cup of coffee this morning

Sorry to hear about your coffee pot. I have a couple of extra ones for back up here.

[Butterfly Woman]

Hopefully you got that other eye opener cup of coffee to get you going fo rthe remainder of the day.. I know that feeling

Hope you have a peaceful Sunday

Hugs to you

[Hey You]

Howdy, check'n in...

Have a good one,
Keith

[admin]

Thanks for checkin in Keith. I pray you have a good one also! :42:

[Butterfly Woman]

Have a great day Keith

Hugs

[Hey You]

Check'n in, gosh darn internet connection giv'n us fits again. Hotspot I bought also went on the frits for two days. Everything is up and running this evening. Complained big time to wireless provider and they gave us a different upgraded modem at no extra cost but shipping. Received it today and seems to work OK and the hotspot was having data connection problems with the main servers (to my understanding after calling them also). Anyhow, I'm traveling my journey down the my straighten path in my sobriety and steer'n clear of any bumps, obstacles or hurdles in my path...

Have a good one,
Keith

[Butterfly Woman]

Hard to know where the pot holes are on the path in cyber space eh Keith?

Just more lessons in patience and acceptance....

Have a great day

Big hugs comeing your way

[Hey You]

It's kind of late but I'm a check'n in, work week is about done and I'm ready for Easter Weekend. Going to be different, without the grandkids around, will be the first Easter in tens years with just the two of us. Sure do miss my little buddies...

Have a good one,
Keith

[Butterfly Woman]

Change isn't always comfortable at first...and yes sometimes it does hurt...Yet we grow so much spiritually thru those changes...even tho we may not see that at the time

Happy Good Friday
Do hope it is a good one for you

Hugs

[Hey You]

Howdy, checkn' in. Had a relaxing weekend, had news Saturday that enlightens our future and will put things in motion. A new chapter will begin, a new path will be cleared and opened up on the journey being traveled. There will be a lot of hard work involved but that's OK. As I have heard tell, that when a soul reaches the top or the peak of the mountain that one is climbing, that is when they will then just begin to start to climb...

Have a good one,
Keith

[MajestyJo]

The best to you on your new endeavors.

[Butterfly Woman]

Wishing you the very best on your new path

Please keep us posted

Hugs

[dwmoeller]

God's blessings to you!

[Hey You]

Check'n in! Two steps forward, one step back, three steps forward, one step back. There is a little progress, but ya know what, it doesn't matter about how fast the motion is moving because I see the light at the end of the tunnel :15: ...

Have a good one,
Keith

[MajestyJo]

Sometimes it is alright to just being. Feeling like we have to be doing is an old tape. Sometimes I would make plans and my sponsor said, "Did you ever think that God may have a different timetable? Did you ever think that He might have other plans for you? Don't beat yourself up for not doing and meeting your expectations. God doesn't project them, they are your own, lower them. A very wise lady who once fired herself when she wasn't well because she said she was too sick to give me the attention I needed. I later went back to her to be reinstated.

[Hey You]

Howdy! Check'n in, it is getting late but wanted to check in and let y'all know I'm still here :D ...

Have a good one,
Keith

[Hey You]

Check'n in on a Wednesday evening. The sun went down a bit ago, I had to stop, come in, eat something and turn on the entertainment box. Busy check'n emails and catching up on stuff before I turn in. I'm still around and fighting the good battle of sobriety. God bless y'all and have a good nite...

Have a good one,
Keith

[Hey You]

I have a message that I received today in an email from my mother that I'd like to share:

A minister passing through his church
In the middle of the day,
Decided to pause by the altar
And see who had come to pray.

Just then the back door opened,
A man came down the aisle,
The minister frowned as he saw
The man hadn't shaved in a while.
His shirt was kinda shabby
And his coat was worn and frayed,
The man knelt, he bowed his head,
Then rose and walked away.

In the days that followed,
Each noon time came this chap,
Each time he knelt just for a moment,
A lunch pail in his lap.

Well, the minister's suspicions grew,
With robbery a main fear,
He decided to stop the man and ask him,
'What are you doing here?'

The old man said, he worked down the road.
Lunch was half an hour.
Lunchtime was his prayer time,
For finding strength and power.

'I stay only moments, see,
Because the factory is so far away;
As I kneel here talking to the Lord,
This is kinda what I say:

'I JUST CAME AGAIN TO TELL YOU, LORD,
HOW HAPPY I'VE BEEN, SINCE WE FOUND EACH OTHERS FRIENDSHIP AND YOU TOOK AWAY MY SIN. DON'T KNOW MUCH OF HOW TO PRAY, BUT I THINK ABOUT YOU EVERYDAY.
SO, JESUS, THIS IS MIKE CHECKING IN TODAY.'

The minister feeling foolish,
Told Mike, that was fine.
He told the man he was welcome
To come and pray just anytime

Time to go, Mike smiled, said 'Thanks.'
He hurried to the door.
The minister knelt at the altar,
He'd never done it before.

His cold heart melted, warmed with love,
And met with Jesus there.
As the tears flowed, in his heart,
He repeated old Mike's prayer:

'I JUST CAME AGAIN TO TELL YOU, LORD,
HOW HAPPY I'VE BEEN, SINCE WE FOUND EACH OTHERS FRIENDSHIP AND YOU TOOK AWAY MY SIN. I DON'T KNOW MUCH OF HOW TO PRAY, BUT I THINK ABOUT YOU EVERYDAY.
SO, JESUS, THIS IS ME CHECKING IN TODAY.'

Past noon one day, the minister noticed
That old Mike hadn't come.
As more days passed without Mike,
He began to worry some.

At the factory, he asked about him,
Learning he was ill.
The hospital staff was worried,
But he'd given them a thrill.

The week that Mike was with them,
Brought changes in the ward.
His smiles, a joy contagious.
Changed people, were his reward.

The head nurse couldn't understand
Why Mike was so glad,
When no flowers, calls or cards came,
Not a visitor he had.

The minister stayed by his bed,
He voiced the nurse's concern:
No friends came to show they cared.
He had nowhere to turn.

Looking surprised, old Mike spoke
Up and with a winsome smile;
'the nurse is wrong, she couldn't know,
That he's in here all the while

Everyday at noon He's here,
A dear friend of mine, you see,
He sits right down, takes my hand,
Leans over and says to me:

'I JUST CAME AGAIN TO TELL YOU, MIKE,
HOW HAPPY I HAVE BEEN, SINCE WE FOUND THIS FRIENDSHIP, AND I TOOK AWAY YOUR SIN.
ALWAYS LOVE TO HEAR YOU PRAY,
I THINK ABOUT YOU EACH DAY, AND SO Mike, THIS IS JESUS CHECKING IN TODAY.'
Many people will walk in and out of your life, but only true friends will leave footprints in your heart

May God hold you in the palm of His hand
And Angels watch over you.

Jesus said,
' If you are ashamed of me,' I will be ashamed
Of you before my Father.'

If you are not ashamed, pass this on.

So, FRIEND, this is ME ... "Just Checking In Today"

Have a good one,
Keith

[Hey You]

Check'n in, hope all the Mom's had a wonderful, blessed day yesterday for Mothers Day...

Have a good one,
Keith

[Butterfly Woman]

Thanx for sharing that writing Keith

Hope all is well with you and yours

Hugs and peace on the journey

[Hey You]

Been busy, busy, busy :15:. Believe it or not but haven't even turned on PC at home on since last Thursday. Went to horse races last nite, there was lots of drink'n going around and with others in our 'party', but flew over me like a balloon. Got in go some heavy duty people watch'n and horse observation, was lot'a fun. Anyhow, just check'n in and have to get after today's program...

Have a good one,
Keith

[dwmoeller]

I was at an anniversary party last Saturday where the beer was flowing out of a keg. When I first got there I was offered a glass of beer. I told him that I don't drink anymore. I just celebrated 6 months of sobriety. Do you have any pop? He showed me the coolers that had pop and I grabbed a Mountain Dew. Everything was cool. I had no desire to drink. I came there to visit with relatives that I haven't seen in a long time, not to drink. I had an enjoyable time.

Peace, Dave

[Butterfly Woman]

Good going Keith

Thanx for checking in

Hugs

[Hey You]

Why is it, that most earthy souls think that it is normal to drink? In my opinion, it is normal not to drink, just my thoughts from my normal unfuzzy, sober clear thinking mind. Keep it real...

Have a good one,
Keith

[MajestyJo]

I think it is normal for most people, unless it is against their religious beliefs. The normal thing for an alcoholic to do is drink. The fact that we can have daily reprieve is a miracle in and of itself, for which I am grateful.

[Butterfly Woman]

Good question Keith

Could it be most enjoy the escape from reality even if it is only temporary?

Hope you have a great day

Hugs

[Hey You]

Today was a good day, just a check'n in...

Have a good one,
Keith

[Hey You]

05/18/1996 a day that will follow me to the end of my time. RIP little brother, fly high as you can on Eagles Wings, listen to the wind for now you are free…

Have a good one,
Keith

[marlene damore]

Keith - A solution to your question..."why is it, that most earthy souls think that it is normal to drink?"...answered best in the Big Book...Working with Others...pg 103.
.
"We are careful never to show intolerance or hatred of drinking as an institution. Experience shows that such an attitute is not helpful to anyone. Every new alcoholic looks for this spirit among us and is immensely relieved when he finds we are not witchburners. A spirit of intolerance might repel alcoholics whose lives could have been saved, had it not been for such stupitidy. We would not even do the cause of temperate drinking any good, for not one drinker in a thousand likes to be told anything about alcohol by one who hates it.
Some day we hope that Alcoholics Anonymous will help the public to be a better realization of the gravity of the alcoholic problem, but we shall be of little use if our attitude is one of bitterness or hostility. Drinkers will not stand for it.
After all, our problems were of our own making. Bottles were only a symbol. Besides, we have stopped fighting anybody or anything. We have to!"

Hoping you find these few short paragraphs from the Big Book to be as life changing as I. It changed my thinking and turned my old ideas to new ones. God bless.

[Hey You]

I hope there is no miss-understanding of my question of “Why is it, that most earthy souls think that is normal to drink?” Everyone is entitled to their own opinions, and everyone is entitled to mine! Y'all know that I’m joking, right? :cool: But seriously, I think that I first read that chapter that Marlene is referring to in the Big Book around early summer in 1983. I have to state my opinion tho, that drinking the drink is not an intended normal thing to do in a normal earth given reality. Also, in ‘my’ opinion, drinking the drink to drunkenness is not a normality, which I might add is want I did every time I poured the poison down my throat. Is it ‘normal for a soul to escape life’s realities through drink? For me it is not, as I used the poison for every situation and issue in my life, being good or bad. There are not very many functions that “I” attend were drinking is not present. The only situations of some sort of gatherings or functions that “I” have attended where drinking was not taking place is religious functions and the drink has been known to even flow at some of those. So with that being said, it is not a “problem” to me if ‘others’ are drinking, just wonder why ‘others’ think that is “normal” to drink. I do make ‘others’ drinking my ‘problem’, if a soul happens to convey to me that one thinks that they may have a problem with the poison. I hope this clarifies my question a little bit. Anyhow, I’m a check’n in…

Have a good one,
Keith

[Hey You]

Hmmm interesting, I've been a check'n in on this here web site for about 5 months now. I can say that I must be a post'n in the wrong place as I have not seen as much activity or interaction as I'd like ta see. May be it's what I'm a post'n? I've a come across some very good and uplifting stuff on this site like Ralph Marston's Daily Motivator and tried ta connect with a soul or two. Anyhow, I'm a check'n in...

Have a good one,
Keith

[MajestyJo]

You are not in the wrong place, some people have chosen not to post, others are sick or working and one person no longer has internet service. Glad you keep coming back.

[Hey You]

Not much to say. Thoughts are with Tammy aka bluidkiti and her family...

[Hey You]

Beautiful, nice wind day, is life is good :D ...

Have a good one,
Keith

[Hey You]

Below is my comment that I posted this morning to another web site that I have been posting to for just short of a year. I had to recognize all the comments from souls congratulating me on my one year of sobriety, which I might add isn’t quite here yet. I'm sharing here in thinking may be someone would like to have a read also…

Grey Wolf says:
May 30, 2011 at 10:15 am

Howdy and Good Morninggg Islanders –

Thank you for your words of encouragement and recognition, even tho I’ve still got around 48 hours (give or take an hour or 2) before the official celebration. It is the newly fresh, new older comers and returnees to the island that are the souls that need the recognition and uplifting more than I. They are the ones that need direction and a leading hand to find the courage and honesty to help themselves in their own personal journeys of their sober travels. The only soul that knows how a drunk feels, how a drunk reacts to drink, understands how a drunk can fall back to the ways of the drink and can offer a helping hand or advice to another drunkards is a drunk.

In helping, or at least believing that one is helping or have helped a fallen soul or comrade to shake off the likes of alcohol is reward in itself. I might add that sticking with the sharing, helping and giving encouragement to others is a big and must tool that every drunk needs in their personal toolbox to help maintain one’s own sobriety. Doesn’t matter if a soul has 1 hour, 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 1 year, 5 years or 20 years of sobriety, they know they will always have to maintain their sober journey to keep their sobriety successfully. The “beast” (the addictive voice inside the addict) will never leave them. Those knowing they are addicted to alcohol know without a shadow of a doubt that this is a true statement. The “beast” may lay dormant for awhile, but IT will always be lying in wait, ready to spring into action, lie to ya, tell ya it’s OK to have just one and try to convince the addict to feed IT. I, myself know this to be true, having experienced this issue firsthand a time or two, or a thousand. A soul must have a plan in place to overcome and be victorious when this happens. I cannot state or stress it enough to “Stay Away From That First Drink” and use the 7T’s — Take Time To Think The Thing Through. I also know that you, yourself, the individual soul is the only one, that has the choice to choose whether to drink or not to drink. On that note, is the question; “Are you, yourself, myself, everyone or anyone, ready to join the journey of sobriety and share your experiences, failings and victories to help yourself and others in this addiction to the liquid poison?”

“God grant me the Serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
Courage to change the things I can;
and Wisdom to know the difference.”

With that I will sign off now, leaving the Island with my ‘Monday late morning’ thoughts that I don’t get to share very often; “HOORAY” for days off from work, working for the employer. Now to get after ‘my’ work and finish up some yard chores that I put off doing early while it’s still cool, so I can play this afternoon (maybe play???), looks like a real nice day to go on a motorcycle ride (sunny and NO wind). My hat is off in recognition on this Memorial Day in remembering of those who have passed on to the spirit world...


Have a good one,
Keith

[Hey You]

I'm check'n in. Not much to report, was a very nice day today and am glad that is a short work week so I can get things done about the farm...

Have a good one,
Keith

[Hey You]

One year and one day :D...

Have a good one,
Keith

[MajestyJo]

Awesome!

[admin]

Congratulations on one year! Way to go! :85:

[marlene damore]

Congratulations on your anniversary!

[captpaulge]

Congrats on the 1 year. Life is good.

[Hey You]

Being busy, seems like there is so much to do and not enough time off from paying job to get stuff done around the non-paying job (home). Had to stop n pop in and say a howdy hi. Really liked today’s Daily Motivator by Ralph Marston and have to share it here:

Your starting point

You are where you are. Accept it and feel the power your acceptance gives you to move forward.

This moment is as it is. Accept its uniqueness and experience the freedom of not having to fight against it.

There are difficult challenges in your life. Accept them and feel the energy that will enable you to rise above them.

Accept that this is your starting point. Instead of placing judgments on it, see the real, positive value that’s already yours.

You cannot change where your past priorities and choices have brought you. Yet you can make use of the wisdom you’ve earned from it all to create a future that fulfills your most treasured dreams.

Lovingly and gratefully accept who you’ve been, what you’ve done, what you have and where you are.

For you can now transform it all into what you most wish to be.

~~ by Ralph Marston

Have a good one,
Keith

[admin]

I know what you mean about alot to do and not enough time. I do what I can each day. Great to hear from you. Have a great weekend! :)

[MajestyJo]

I was totally amazed. I used to make the time disappear and in recovery I found that there were not enough hours in a day!

Hugzzz!

[Hey You]

Still been busy, work n till dusk. Thought I'd check in before turn n in and let n y'all known I'm still around...

Have a good one,
Keith

[Hey You]

Yep, still keeping busy and just made my self busier. Bought a tractor the other day with a loader, backhoe, large mower bed and post hole digger with the thoughts of making "things" easier for myself. Ha, now it looks like I need to buy another tractor and hire someone to run it to get everything done that we want to get done :wink: ...

Have a good one,
Keith

[MajestyJo]

Isn't it amazing, how we can get caught up in more! One thing does lead to another. Glad things are going so well for you.

[Hey You]

Check'n in on a very nice Wednesday evening, is getting time for me to do a little relax'n. Just two more work days left in the week work'n for the employer, then a three day weekend to get stuff around the farm...

Have a good one,
Keith

[Butterfly Woman]

Hi keith

glad to hear you are still keepin on keepin on

Hugs to you

[Hey You]

I'm really whipped :6: but thought I'd take a moment to check in and say howdy hi...

Have a good one,
Keith

[admin]

Hope you are feeling better. :42:

[Butterfly Woman]

Have a great day keith!!

[MajestyJo]

Sounds like you need rest for the body, mind and spirit to get to a 'whipped' stage. Perhaps you need food for the body, mind and spirit to give you the energy you need.

Hugs!

[Butterfly Woman]

Remember H.A.L.T and take care of you

Have a great day

Hugs

[dwmoeller]

Remember H.A.L.T and take care of you

Have a great day

Hugs

Thanks. It's a good reminder for everyone.

[MajestyJo]

A good reminder for me, that I need to apply it to the body, mind and spirit!

[Hey You]

M’lady and I packed up the pick-up last Thursday nite with our camping gear, strapped a tarp over it all, both of us took work off early Friday afternoon, left the farm and all the work that needs to be done…

We headed off to the mountains to some camp’n with M’lady’s daughter, her daughters husband and daughters husbands parents. Got tent set up well before dark this time (which I really like to have happen) and the ice cold beers were aflown like a snow melted, bank full stream rushing down a mountain side and didn’t bother me abit. I got all the gear unpack after tent was set up, helped M'lady set her kitchen up. Then I got a couple of cans of cold seltzer waters out of our drink cooler, grabbed my fish’n pole, tackle box, three different kinds bait and headed out down to the lake before dark fall to get in some long time overdue needed fish’n in. Got in a few hours fish’n without even a nibble, but enjoyed some ‘me’ time by myself…

Strolled back into camp to find M’lady’s daughter’s husband’s fathers invited drunken friend and his lady friend, drunken in-law father and son giving me crap about coming back empty handed. Let it all roll off me like water shedding off a ducks back and settled in to a fine meal fixed by M’lady around the campfire. Turned in Friday nite listening to the drunken laughter of the drinking souls and was hoping that they didn’t start the forest on fire while they were keeping the campfire going…

M’lady and I woke up early thirty Saturday morning, made coffee, made and eaten breakfast before life was shown by any others in the camp. They were all drag’n a$$ and I set off to do some early morning fish’n in hopes of catch’n a mess of trout or bass to prove to the drinking souls of the camp that this old ‘sober’ drunk could still fish and catch a few to put on the stringer. Strolled back into camp late thirty morning empty hand once again, without even a nibble, but one sinker and hook shorter in the tackle box via snag. I got the riot act once again by the others about empty handed and they had already started the beer drink’n, which I didn’t really think twice about except that back in my drink’n days I would have been in the same boat…

Had lunch, changed into some warmer weather clothes as it was starting to warm up. Got the riot act once again because of my ‘white’ legs stick’n out of my short pants because I spend most of my time with long legs on my pants work’n around the farm instead laying around the pool, drink’n beer, getting a tan after work. I just laughed it off and gave a little $hit back and played a game of cribbage with M’lady (also long time overdue, got whipped bad). At later thirty mid-afternoon asked if anyone wanted to go fish’n, no takers so I ventured off again in hopes of a catch of something, even a bullhead, a sunfish or carp would make me happy. I fished this spot, another spot and another, patiently waiting, switching up baits to no avail, not even a nibble. I was fish’n in the last spot of the afternoon and there a was another fellow that came about twenty feet from me, asked if he could fish there, I told him that I didn’t own the lake and that he was welcome to fish there. I had been there in that location for about an half an hour or so before he showed up. This soul casted off, sat down and within four or five minutes reeled in a nice pan sized trout. I asked him what he was using for bait, he told me orange powerbait and I had to comment that I was using the same without even a nibble. I stayed at that place for another hour or so, watched this other fellow pull in a meal for seven people. I left with no nibbles, a little frustrated and my white legs as red as a lobster. Once again strolled back into camp empty handed, got the hazing and I told them that the batteries in my portable fish finder had died (which I don’t own, but they bought my story, of course late morning and all afternoon beer drink’n didn’t have anything to help with the convincing them I’m sure). Enjoyed another fine meal prepared by M’lady, then headed back to the lake for some more punishment. Came back to camp at nite fall, no luck, felt like throwing the darn pole and reel in the lake and going down to the tackle and bait shop and buying new outfit to finish Sunday morning fishing with before packing up…

Anyhow, when I returned to camp, no hazing, something happened while I was away, drinking souls got pi$$ed at one another or something, guess in-law mother (was sober) had words with drinking husband and drinking husbands friend which led to ‘this’ and ‘that’ and I missed all the excitement…

In the morning, everybody up was early thirty, packing up gear, everybody’s water is hot and no words are being spoken between anyone. I make small talk to everyone individually, everyone reacts nicely and acknowledges to me individually, but nothing is said to the whole group as a whole, I’m almost laughing out loud about the whole ordeal which I’m glad I wasn’t involved in, I am sure they will all kiss and make up within a few days over drinks. Needless to say I didn’t get in any fishing Sunday morning like planed; fish were probably biting like crazy…

Went back to work Monday and back to work after work on the farm; have got a lot done at both jobs the last two days and tomorrow is Wednesday, hump day, pay day and bill paying day :170: …

That’s my big fish that got away story and I’m a check’n in, all is good and well with me…

Have a good one,
Keith

[dwmoeller]

One time years ago, I took my Grandpa fishing in the mouse river near Minot, ND. We were fishing for bullheads for a couple of hours. I was catching one bullhead after another and my Grandpa never got a nibble. It's kind of funny how fishing goes sometimes. The main thing is that you enjoyed yourself. Another bonus was that you got away from the drunken beer drinkers.

[MajestyJo]

You did well. Detaching from them can't have been easy. Sounds like you were in God's country and He was with you.

[admin]

I am glad you got to go fishing. I am also glad you chose not to partake in the drinking and that you got in some "me" time. Maybe it wasn't all about the fishing but God was showing and telling you other things. :42:

[Hey You]

Well I survived another work week, now to put in some good serious work time around the farm. Have several tree stumps to dig out and tree trimming to do. Then try to work in changing the oil & filter on my motorcycle, move some dirt around, level out moved dirt, work on electric fence around pasture, fix leaky faucet in mud room and putting up a portable garage, have water ordered to do irrigating on Sunday. Not necessarily in that order.

Have a sober one,
Keith

[MajestyJo]

Sound like you have some busy times ahead of you. It is good to be working with the earth and water is very grounding for me.

Hope with all that busy, you have time to get to a meeting and spend time with your sponsor.

http://www.animated-gifs.eu/alphabet-pj-water/0008.gifhttp://www.animated-gifs.eu/alphabet-pj-water/0021.gifhttp://www.animated-gifs.eu/alphabet-pj-water/0007.gifhttp://www.animated-gifs.eu/alphabet-pj-water/0019.gif

[Butterfly Woman]

Also sounds like you had some great God time

Hugs

[Hey You]

@ MajestyJo – I love working with the Earth, it’s Gods land. Haven’t been to a meeting in about two and a half years or so and don’t have an ‘earthly’ sponsor. Am living sober using and studying Rational Recovery tools along with my AA tools I have acquired over the last 30+ years, works for me and am happy to be sober ‘now’ and for the rest of my Earth given life. God Bless ya, have to get after the days plan…

Have a sober one,
Keith

[MajestyJo]

Thank you. I think I might have heard of it several years ago, but Rational Recovery was just words. I will check it out. It is about doing what works for you.

I don't get out to meeting because of my disabilities. My pain is much worse at night and often don't get to sleep until late at night and don't wake up in time for morning meetings either. Yesterday I had plans on going to a morning meeting. When I went to bed about 4 a.m. I forgot to set the alarm and woke up at 11 a.m.

There is a NA meeting in 10 minutes, now that I think about it, and too late to get to that one as well. Not sure if it is wheel chair accessible, seems like I remember stairs.

Have a good day!

[Butterfly Woman]

Hi Keith

have a great Sat evening

Hugs

[Hey You]

Check'n in, not much to report on this evening. Am in the house early, its still light out and food is being prepared...

Have a good one,
Keith

[Butterfly Woman]

Hi Keith

Have a fantastic day

Hugs

[Hey You]

Check’n in, gotta share a little something I ran across…

Twenty Dollars
~~ by Author Unknown

A well known speaker started off his seminar by holding up a $20 bill. In the room of 200, he asked. “Who would like this $20 bill?”

Hands started going up. He said, “I am going to give this $20 to one of you – but first, let me do this.”

He proceeded to crumple the 20 dollar note up. He then asked. “Who still wants it?” Still the hands were up in the air.

“Well,” he replied, “what if I do this?” He dropped it on the ground and started to grind it into the floor with his shoe. He picked it up, now crumpled and dirty. “Now, who still wants it?”

Still the hands went into the air.

“My friends, you have all learned a very valuable lesson. No matter what I did to the money, you still wanted it because it did not decrease in value. It was still worth $20.

Many times in our lives, we are dropped, crumpled, and ground into the dirt by the decisions we make and the circumstances that come our way. We feel as though we are worthless; but no matter what happened or what will happen, you will never lose your value.

Dirty or clean, crumpled or finely creased, you are still priceless to those who love you. The worth of our lives comes, not in what we do or who we know, but by …WHO WE ARE.

You are special – don’t ever forget it.” :170:

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Have a good one,
Keith

[dwmoeller]

What a lesson in this story! We are special indeed.

[Butterfly Woman]

Love that story Keith

thanx for sharing it

Hugs

[MajestyJo]

Love it. Doesn't matter what we look like or how we appear, we are still loveable and worth while.

[Hey You]

Not much to report this evening, am glad y'all enjoyed the shared short story. All is good with me, but wanted to check in...

Have a good one,
Keith

[dwmoeller]

You are special – don’t ever forget it.” :170:

Pslam 90:17 May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us.

Thought: You are special in God's eyes! He has a plan for you each day!

[Butterfly Woman]

Hope you enjoy your Friday Keith

Hugs

[Hey You]

Need to get started with today's plan, but thought I'd check in before taking things on...

Have a good one,
Keith

[Hey You]

Been busy as usual but wanted to check in, need to take some time off and go relax under a shade tree for about a week and a half :170:. Buttttt, have a lot to do before the cooler weather comes around.

Y'all have a good one, as I need to get after it,
Keith

[Butterfly Woman]

I'm anxious to feel that cool weather....

Enjoy your relaxing time and just BE

hugs to you

[Hey You]

Still busy, busy, busy. I had to take the backhoe off my tractor this afternoon after work and hitch up the wagon. I then loaded 3 of my 4 chain saws in it and headed off to the northwest corner of our property to try and find our fence which I haven’t seen for awhile. After running two of the three saws that I took with me for several hours I found the fence line and a nice pile of cleanly cut walnut wood for the wood burner next winter after this one, will need some curing time before burning. It also looks like I really need to do more serious wood cutting and only dented what I need to do. I will have to put the backhoe back on and dig up some tree stumps now after I mount up the posthole digger and drill some post holes for fence repair. Ya just gotta love it. And to think that I used to do the same kind work back in the Midwestern plain states half polluted, it’s a wonder I am still a live and I’ve got all my fingers and toes…

Anyway is getting late thirty and I need to unwind a bit before sleepy time...

Have a good one,
Keith

[MajestyJo]

Sounds good, spent a few hours in the bush when I was younger. I was raised on a 199 acre farm (one acre given to township to build one-room school on by my grandfather). Had a friend who was blind who found that wood was very grounding for him. He was blind and he liked to touch it.

Couldn't wait to get off the farm at 17 and now I wish it was there to go back to. We moved there when I was 6 with no running water or electricity. Sounds like you enjoy your space, sounds awesome.

[Hey You]

Finding a free moment to check in, its been a day or two since last checked in. Hope everybody's journey has been smooth traveling...

Have a good one,
Keith

[MajestyJo]

Have a great weekend! Hugs!

[dwmoeller]

Kieth, I was a farm hand for two summers 25 years ago and I loved every minute of it. I think that I should have been a farmer! But, God had other plans for me.

God's blessings to you.
Dave

[Hey You]

In the house early tonite, couldn't work till night fall like usual. I had to go into my paying job early to get a large bid done, was due at 12 noon today. I'm really beat this evening, but thought I could squeeze in a check in with y'all and say howdy...

Have a good one,
Keith

[MajestyJo]

Glad you did, doesn't seem right when you are here. It complete the day. have been looking for a picture for you. This is pretty jazzed up, not sure I see you as a jazzed up guy, someone who is pretty basic and down to earth. Hope you like it.

http://www.animated-gifs.eu/phone-240x320-bikes/0052.gif

[Hey You]

Thanks MajestyJo, nice. I've found a spare moment to check in and also received a little something from an old friend that I'd like to share...

T-bone steaks, yellow roses and friendship READ THIS!!!! and then reread it. Especially the last part...

I walked into the grocery store not particularly interested in buying groceries. I wasn't hungry.. The pain of losing my husband of 57 years was still too raw. And this grocery store held so many sweet memories..

He often came with me and almost every time he'd pretend to go off and look for something special. I knew what he was up to. I'd always spot him walking down the aisle with the three yellow roses in his hands.

He knew I loved yellow roses. With a heart filled with grief, I only wanted to buy my few items and leave, but even grocery shopping was different since he had passed on.

Shopping for one took time, a little more thought than it had for two.

Standing by the meat, I searched for the perfect small steak and remembered how he had loved his steak.

Suddenly a woman came beside me. She was blonde, slim and lovely in a soft green pantsuit. I watched as she picked up a large package of T-bones, dropped them in her basket... hesitated, and then put them back. She turned to go and once again reached for the pack of steaks.

She saw me watching her and she smiled. 'My husband loves T-bones, but honestly, at these prices, I don't know.'

I swallowed the emotion down my throat and met her pale blue eyes.

'My husband passed away eight days ago,' I told her. Glancing at the package in her hands, I fought to control the tremble in my voice. 'Buy him the steaks. And cherish every moment you have together.'

She shook her head and I saw the emotion in her eyes as she placed the package in her basket and wheeled away

I turned and pushed my cart across the length of the store to the dairy products. There I stood, trying to decide which size milk I should buy. A Quart, I finally decided and moved on to the ice cream. If nothing else, I could always fix myself an ice cream cone.

I placed the ice cream in my cart and looked down the aisle toward the front. I saw first the green suit, then recognized the pretty lady coming towards me. In her arms she carried a package. On her face was the brightest smile I had ever seen! I would swear a soft halo encircled her blonde hair as she kept walking toward me, her eyes holding mine.

As she came closer, I saw what she held and tears began misting in my eyes. 'These are for you,' she said and placed three beautiful long stemmed yellow roses in my arms. 'When you go through the line, they will know these are paid for.' She leaned over and placed a gentle kiss on my cheek, then smiled again. I wanted to tell her what she'd done, what the roses meant, but still unable to speak, I watched as she walked away as tears clouded my vision

I looked down at the beautiful roses nestled in the green tissue wrapping and found it almost unreal. How did she know? Suddenly the answer seemed so clear. I wasn't alone.

Oh, you haven't forgotten me, have you? I whispered, with tears in my eyes. He was still with me, and she was his angel.

Every day be thankful for what you have and who you are. (Please read all of this, it is really nice)

This is a simple request. If you appreciate life, send this to your friends, including the person that sent it to you.

Even though I clutch my blanket and growl when the alarm rings. Thank you, Lord, that I can hear. There are many who are deaf.

Even though I keep my eyes closed against the morning light as long as possible. Thank you, Lord , that I can see. Many are blind.

Even though I huddle in my bed and put off rising. Thank you, Lord, that I have the strength to rise. There are many who are bedridden.

Even though the first hour of my day is hectic, when socks are lost, toast is burned, tempers are short, and my children are so loud.

Thank you, Lord, for my family.. There are many who are lonely.

Even though our breakfast table never looks like the picture in magazines and the menu is at times unbalanced..

Thank you, Lord, for the food we have. There are many who are hungry.

Even though the routine of my job often is monotonous. Thank you, Lord, for the opportunity to work. There are many who have no job.

Even though I grumble and bemoan my fate from day to day and wish my circumstances were not so modest.

Thank you, Lord, for life.

Pass this on to the friends you know. It might help a bit to make this world a better place to live, right? A friend is someone we turn to when our spirits need a lift. A friend is someone to treasure.

For friendship is a gift. A friend is someone who fills our lives with Beauty, Joy and Grace and makes the world we live in a better and happier place!

====================

Have a good one,
Keith

[MajestyJo]

Love it, have it somewhere on one of my sites. If you don't mind I am going to copy it and post it to "Get What You Need." Thanks for the reminder.

http://getwhatyouneed.multiply.com/journal/item/94/T-Bone_Steaks_Yellow_Roses_and_Friendship

[Butterfly Woman]

Love the attitude of gratitude

Hugs

[Hey You]

Howdy all, found a moment to check in before turning in for the nite...

Have a good one,
Keith

[Butterfly Woman]

rest well Keith

thanx for checking in

Hugs

[Hey You]

A quick check in before taken on my day. Took yesterday off, m'lady and I just sat around the pool together talking, reading, a little swimming, dusk came and the fire pit was set afire, with some more relaxation in the swing watching the fire aglow along the pools edge. Was nice to take a day off, have to get after mowing the lawn this morning after the dew leaves while its still cool and try to get the "needed" things done early so I can enjoy some more relaxation of doing nothing. We talked about fishing/camping this Labor Day weekend, but it didn't happen this year, but we promised ourselves to just take it easy for three days. I know if I was the say, "Lets go to Reno", m'lady would probably beat me to the vehicle, tho :15: ...

Have a good one,
Keith

[Hey You]

Check’n in, was up early today this morning and will be that way for future days to come, as our new 9 week old “alarm clock” must be tak’n out to the backyard early thirty to start the day off in the right way. Have my coffee :281: allowance used up for the day already…

Anyhow, have to get after the day’s plan, have vet appointment this morning and this afternoon we have to travel to the city to send a young family member off on her first year of college. It’s just an excuse for everyone to get together for a party, been to these things before, if y’all know what I mean :wink:. No work around the farm today, guess it won’t be going anywhere and will still be here tomorrow…

Have a good one,
Keith

[MajestyJo]

Nice we don't have to drink in order to celebrate.

http://www.animated-gifs.eu/ps-love-objects/0027.gif

[Hey You]

Catching up on emails and such. Am a check'n in, is going on late thirty this evening and am getting about ready to turn in for the nite :6:...

Have a good one,
Keith

[Hey You]

Check'in early thirty this morning, have'n a cup of coffee :281:, puppy has been take'n out :87:, waiting for the sun to rise :D and the newspaper to arrive :cool:. Am thanking :218: Father God for another fine day...

Have a good one,
Keith

[Butterfly Woman]

Hi Keith
good to see you today

Hope you're having a great day
Hugs

[Hey You]

Gees, haven't posted a check'n in for awhile. My, how time flies when things are "in line" and everything is running smoothly :1:. Been busy getting the farm ready for me to have a needed leave from it for a week to the mountains, getting back to nature at annual hunting camp. Been also getting things ready for the "gear-up" next Friday, it does the mind, body and soul good to get away from the rat race, have no cell phone connection, no electricity, no newspaper, no TV, no computer, no cares or worries. It's not so much about the hunt, but more so towards eating, sleeping, nature and enjoy good friends that one hasn't seen in a year. Yes, there will be those that will be drinking around the campfire till late thirty at nite, but I have survived this before and will survive it again this year. There are a few of us that like to get up early thirty and fix up some strong coffee for those that are 'sleeping in'. Anyhow, I'm a check'n in and will try to check in again before I leave next Saturday morning...

Have a good one,
Keith

[MajestyJo]

Sounds good! Can't do better than getting out and being in touch with God's creation.

[dwmoeller]

I hope you have a great time!

[Butterfly Woman]

Stay safe and enjoy

Hugs

[Hey You]

A quick check in, all is well and fine in this spot of the earth :1:, hope all is well with y'all, enjoyed my time at hunting camp, now to button up things around the home front and get ready for the cooler months ahead. First need to get the wood shed fixed up and then filled up with firewood. Have a bunch cut but needs to be split, then onto, I don't know what, so there alot to do...

Have a good one,
Keith

[MajestyJo]

Use to help my dad when he used the buzz saw to cut up the wood and then we had to bring the wood into the basement to be piled up for the wood furnace and cook stove. When we were young it was a big thing, as we grew older, it became BORING!

[dwmoeller]

It's alot of hard work, but it saves heating costs.

[MajestyJo]

Nothing better than cooking your food on a wood stove. When I was 10 years old, forgot to close the draft on the stove and the flames from our chimney could be seen a mile away! Not one of my better moments.

[dwmoeller]

Jo,

Thankfully the house didn't burn to the ground. I bet you never did that again!

Dave

[MajestyJo]

Nope, I was only 10 but learned my lesson well. I was six when we moved there and had no running water or electricity.

[Hey You]

Still building up the fire wood supply, gets harder and longer to gather my acorns up for the winter every year that goes by. The days are get'n shorter and shorter the further we get closer to the end of the calendar year. I've got so much to get done and no day light to do it in. I'm thinking about getting a log splitter, may get one that attaches to the 3-point of my tractor and uses the hydraulics. Or an electric one or a gasoline powered one, a new one, a used.....I know that I will have to dip into my pockets but I think it's time I retired that old ax, wedges and sludge hammer. My wrists, elbows and shoulders, especially my shoulders, don't take to the swing'n of the tools anymore. I pay for it the next few days in my joints, and gees it really is tak'n longer and longer to knock that wood pile down I keep building up every year down to burnable sized sticks that we can used in the wood burner. Puppy wanted to play fetch yesterday and I had a real hard time throwing the ball, I couldn't believe it, I'm not a young pup myself anymore I guess. Anyhow, sorry for not keep'n a steady check in process going, but busy, busy, busy :1: ...

Have a good one,
Keith

[MajestyJo]

Glad you took the time to say hello. Something that helps me with aching shoulders, knees, feet, lower back, arms and legs is Voltaren. A bit expensive but I try to get it on sale. When I am hurting I practically bathe in it. My friend is allergic to Aspirin so she can't use it.

Looked for motorcycle and couldn't find it. Looked for something not all mush and slush! LOL!

http://angeleyes2.com/pod4/podb.jpg

[dwmoeller]

Keith,

I'm not a young pup anymore either. I know what you mean about body aches. I pulled or strained a muscle in my rib cage raking the leaves in my yard.

[Hey You]

Hmmm,,,,,am finding that it's the wrong time of year to be look'n to buy a log splitter. Well, I have to keep after it as I've put the money aside to get one and gosh darn it I'm gonna get one, somehow, someway... :15: Anyhow, I ran across a short story I thought I’d share with y’all, ya can take it or leave it::

“An old man lived alone in Minnesota. He wanted to spade his potato garden, but it was very hard work. His only son, who would have helped him, was in prison. The old man wrote a letter to his son and mentioned his situation:

Dear Son,
I am feeling pretty bad because it looks like I won’t be able to plant my potato garden this year. I hate to miss doing the garden because your mother always loved planting time. I’m just getting too old to be digging up a garden plot. If you were here, all my troubles would be over. I know you would dig the plot for me, if you weren’t in prison.
Love,
Dad



Shortly, the old man received this telegram: ‘For Heaven’s sake, Dad, don’t dig up the garden!! That’s where I buried the GUNS!!’

At 4 a.m. the next morning, a dozen FBI agents and local police officers showed up and dug up the entire garden without finding any guns.

Confused, the old man wrote another note to his son telling him what had happened, and asked him what to do next.

His son’s reply was: ‘Go ahead and plant your potatoes, Dad. It’s the best I could do for you, from here.’

MORAL: NO MATTER WHERE YOU ARE IN THE WORLD, IF YOU HAVE DECIDED TO DO SOMETHING DEEP FROM YOUR HEART, YOU CAN DO IT. IT IS THE THOUGHT THAT MATTERS, NOT WHERE YOU ARE OR WHERE THE PERSON IS.”
~~ by an Unknown Author

Have a good one,
Keith

[dwmoeller]

That was a great story. Take care. I hope you find a log splitter that is in your budget.

[Hey You]

I found and ordered a log splitter online Monday and picked it up this afternoon, now I get to put it together. Weather is suppose to start turning crappy tomorrow and some split wood would be nice to burn. Have a bunch of smaller stuff that will have to do in the wood burner till splitter is ready to go to work. Also purchased and picked up a 2011 hard shelled, pop-up Aliner camper trailer yesterday, the Sport model. Good bye tent camping :87: We will now have an air conditioner and heater if needed, also on board will be a refrigerator, microwave, cooking stove, a sink with hot and cold water, an outside shower with hot and cold water too, with a dinette that turns in to a bed with more than enough for two. Yep, comforts of home in a box on two wheels...Anyhow, the camper is kind of a reward to myself for keep'n my journey's path straight and firmly planted. M'lady also gets to reap all the rewards as well :1: if ya know what I mean. She tried to put off on me that she is OK with camping in a tent, but did comment on my sobriety and rewarding myself was OK :wink:....think she will enjoy the Aliner as well as I.

Have a good one,
Keith

[Butterfly Woman]

Sounds wonderful

peace on the journey

[MajestyJo]

LOL! Doesn't sound like camping to me! My apartment doesn't have a lot of things you mentioned! Glad you got what you needed. God does provide. Not always in our time, but it sounds like you got a bonus!

[Hey You]

Well, my new log splitter works great, have 99.9999% of my sawn up logs spit and neatly stacked away in newly built wood shelter. Pretty much have a winter supply of fire wood ready to burn in the wood burner and now that it is cooler out, need to start cutting wood to season for next year...ya just gotta love it :wink: . Checked out the heater in our new camper and it works great also, just need to find a little time to transfer camping stuff into camper so that it'll be ready to go at a moments notice. I'll sign off with that this evening, hoping that this finds everyone in good spirits...

Have a good one,
Keith

[admin]

Always great to hear from you Keith. Glad that you have your wood all done for this year. Have a great day! :D

[MajestyJo]

http://www.angeleyes2.com/platinum/images/ca/garfield.gif

[dwmoeller]

I'm glad your splitter is working good for you. It's lots faster and easier than the old fashion, hard on the body way of splitting wood.

I use fuel oil to run my furnace. It is a killer paying for that expensive fuel oil.

Take care,
Dave

[Hey You]

Check'n on a Thursday evening while waiting for food to get done cook'n, appears somethin's wrong with the oven. Its not heat'n right, may be brok'n....well, microwave cooked is better than nothin'...

Have a good one,
Keith

[MajestyJo]

You should have a wooden stove up there in them there woods. Nothing makes food taste better than being cooked in a stove heated with wood.

[admin]

Sorry to hear about your stove. What type is it? If it is electric stove it might be the heating element?

[dwmoeller]

My grandma cooked on a wood stove when they lived on the farm.

[Butterfly Woman]

Thanx for checkin in with us

[Hey You]

Yep, it was the heating element. Looked at it last nite and it was clean broke in half, was only part of it heating, took three hours to heat up to 260 degrees, need 400 degrees to cook the meat loaf. We have a new one on order and will be here next tuesday. I have and can cook on a wood burning stove, but don't think that M'lady has ever cooked on one before, being a pure blood Californian city slicker and all. It is a little different cooking on a wood burner than electric or gas, is really different cooking in wood burning oven. Ya have to regulate your temperature with the door, with different levels of "openest", while feeding the firebox and one eye on the thermostat making sure that whatever your cooking in there gets evenly heated all the way around. Half of your cookies will cook perfectly and the other half will be only half done or burnt. Was my experience anyway, but a soul can get the food prepared right if one keeps an eye on things and practices, there is no setting a timer and running off to do sometime else while cooking on a wood burning cook range. My mother has two operational old, old ones in Wyoming and still uses them last I knew. I tryed to talk M'lady into cook'n the meat loaf in our camping oven that sets on top of a camping stove which would have cooked it, but she would have nothing to do with it. Microwave worked OK, was a little dry, but a little ketchup cured that :15:, I had no complaints. Anyhow, I'm check'n in...

Have a good one,
Keith

[MajestyJo]

My mom promised me that I could make brownies to take to the church. I think I was about 14, so it was many moons ago. I had sneaked a peek and they had risen and looked awesome. My sister came 'clomping' down the stairs, said, "How's your brownies Jo?" She opened the door, and it slammed shut. My bownies were about 1/2" high when I took them out of the oven. I don't remember if I cried, probably, I know I was angry. It took many years to forgive her for this. The ego was very badly bruised.

[admin]

Glad to hear it is just the heating element and you are able to order it. At least you don't have to get a whole new stove. In my stove I had before the one I have now, the heating element in it exploded - no lie. LOL The last stove we bought is one of those that has the flat top and I love it!

[Butterfly Woman]

Sorry to hear it will take until Tuesday to get the part you need, but glad you wqere able to determine the problem

Hope you have a great weekend

Hugs n blessings

[MajestyJo]

Better a heatig element, than a whole stove. We do adapt. Perhaps you can bring the Barbeque back into service.

[Hey You]

Check'n in on a Monday evening :17: , had contacts from two of my four adult children earlier today :smile:. The youngest ones and both wanted money :confused:. Told them both that I'd help them out as much as I can, but no way am I financially able to full fill both of their needs totally. I always thought I had taught them all not to live life beyond their means. I know that things are tuff "out there", as I am "out there" too. I have to pay the same price for gasoline, food, electricity and everything else. Plus I get to help my grown adult children pay for theirs too. Something wrong with this picture. I wonder what my retired mother and step father would say if I called them up and asked them to help me out in taking care of my grown children's money problems??? After all, they are their grandparents...I know, that a request like that would fly over like a lead balloon and they'd tell me to tell them to figure it out...Well, life is grand and all I can say is that I do love my children and would give them the world if I could, but it does come to a time that they have to figure it out for themselves, of course with just a 'little' of my help :wink:. Problem is that the three daughters mother is not helping :undecided:. In fact, I think that the EX is the main problem of their financial situations, as she is right in the mix of things and is hindering instead of helping, according to daughter number 2 :44:...

Anyhow, I get to pick up heating element for oven tomorrow after work and get to install it too, yay :29:, M'lady will like getting her oven back. Hope that it lasts awhile as the stove is not that old, may be three years old at the most. Oh well, gonna sign off with that for the evening...

Have a good one,
Keith

[Hey You]

Check'n in on my 5-5 Bday today...survived Turkey Day and M'ladys daughters 3-0 Bday party bus to Napa Valley for wine tasting yesterday. Like I said I survived the party bus but do have to state that it was also interesting being around a bus load of 27-32 year old drinkers, they started out with a keg on the 3 hour bus trip to Napa, then the stops at several winery's for some wine and champagne, then on the trip home they had the party bus driver stop so that they could pickup and drink about 4 cases of beer. Yep, it was an interest day and road trip yesterday.

Have a good one,
Keith

[Butterfly Woman]

Glad you made it home in one piece Keith

Hugs

[MajestyJo]

Didn't like the smell of beer, wouldn't have liked to have been around them all in a bus. I don't make a good alcoholic, the wine is a different matter.

http://www.angeleyes2.com/platinum6/pictures/images/re/feb8qu.jpg

[Butterfly Woman]

Hope you have a good day keith

Hugs n blessings

[admin]

Glad you made it home sober and safe.

[Hey You]

Check'n in...busy with Christmas stuff now along with all the other stuff :28: have to work in step-daughters graduation in less than two weeks, can't find cheap air fare, may have to drive, will be a 9-10 hour drive and a lot is through mountainous area's :sad: . Wrong time of year, but she is graduating with not only one but two Bachelor degrees and I'm really proud of her :85:...

Have a good one,
Keith

PS: nice pic MajestyJo :17:

[MajestyJo]

:195: Awesome Keith, do drive safely if that is the way you have to go.

[Butterfly Woman]

That's wonderful!! If you are driving may the traveling angels guide you there & back safely

Hugs

[Hey You]

Check'n in...:cool:

Have a good one,
Keith