Andrew & Jarrett - Forever in Our Hearts

2012-01-28T08:22:00.002-06:00

Here's the front yard view at 7:18 a.m. showing Andrew and Jarrett's candles. Jarrett's candle now has a new bulb in it.
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Saturday, January 28, 2012 - The sun is shining right in the window as I type this. Bright sun reflecting off the snow is always a challenge.

I do like to see the boys' candles surrounded by snow. They look especially pretty in the night time.

God bless Andrew. God bless Jarrett. miss you guys, mom

2012-01-22T12:25:00.003-06:00

Here's my Lego stabilization system holding up the heater in the garage.
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Sunday, January 22, 2012 - Ever since it got real cold, the heater in the garage has been working overtime. It does make some weird sounds but I know which ones are good and which ones are bad.

Yesterday, I heard the tick, tick, ticking sound but it didn't seem that anything was wrong, yet...

...however, this morning, when I went out into the garage, the ticking sounds were more sustained. hmmmm

So, I lifted up the right side of the cover and they stopped. When I let it back down, they started up again. I KNEW what had happened.

A couple of years ago, when my HVAC buddy, Brian, was here, he figured out that the cover had to be permanently attached to two special screws in the wall to keep the blower from hitting the side of the cover which causes the ticking sound.

We were both so excited when he figured it out because I'd had others here who didn't have a clue as to what was happening. God bless, Brian.

It's kind of scary to me because it's a gas heater. That's why I put the second set of Legos on the left side in case the other screw gets loose, then, at least, it will have something to lean on.

Yes, I'm going to call them first thing tomorrow. But, so far, it's been working. Oh, did I mention that I was sitting on the floor in the garage at 6 a.m. this morning waiting for the blower to turn off?

A gal's gotta do whatever needs to be done. catch ya later, djb

2012-01-21T07:27:00.004-06:00

When I came downstairs and looked out the front window, I saw that Jarrett's bulb had burned out in his candle. Picture taken at 6:55 a.m.
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Saturday, January 21, 2012 - Whenever the bulb burns out in one of their candles, I always take that as a message from whomever's candle went dark.

Hmmmm. What's up, Jarrett?

Yesterday, I was relying on snowfall totals from the Chicago Tribune weather page info. They were saying that Elburn had 2.5 inches some time in the early afternoon.

Little did I know what we really got. This was in the Kane County Chronicle this morning:

The area was under a winter snow warning through midnight Saturday, according to the National Weather Service’s Romeoville office. As of 8 p.m., 8 inches had fallen in Elburn and 6.2 inches in Batavia, according to the weather service.

That explains why I saw very few cars drive by yesterday. haha! It's so pretty and white but very cold. ~snow flake ya later, djb

2012-01-20T17:23:00.002-06:00

Here's another picture of the cardinal. There were actually about 2 or 3 other male cardinals in the tree with this guy. It was pretty cool.
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Friday, January 20, 2012 - While I was cutting a large roast into two smaller pieces, I saw a whole bunch of birdies in the crab apple tree.

So, I grabbed my camera with the telephoto lens and tried to take pictures through the window. Believe it or not, this was one of the better ones.

It's really hard to find smaller objects when you're looking through a 300 mm lens. But, he does look like he's hunkered down for the duration.

snow ya later, djb

2012-01-14T10:18:00.002-06:00

This picture was taken yesterday through the sliding glass door -- where did the swimming pool go?
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Saturday, January 14, 2012 - Somewhere I have a picture of deck and pool when the snow storm first started.

Here's what it looked like yesterday afternoon. LOTS of snow! But the evergreen trees look so pretty. later, djb

2012-01-12T20:03:00.003-06:00

I cropped the orbs out of the top of the photo and enhanced them because I could barely see the one on top. This was taken in the driveway.
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Thursday, January 12, 2012 - Whenever I see two orbs, I always assume that it's Andrew and Jarrett saying HI to me.

Crazy people like to live in their own little wacky world. haha

It's supposed to snow all night. They said how many inches we had in Elburn, but I missed it. Oh well, I shoveled for an hour but I knew that it needed the snow blower treatment. later, djb

2012-01-12T14:38:00.002-06:00

Here are the boys' candles at 12:22 p.m. Hey, where's the road?
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Thursday, January 12, 2012 - Not too long after I took this photo, the snow plow came through so now there's a ribbon of darkness in the whiteness.

I'm having so much fun. I just made a meatloaf for supper. Did the dishwasher, washed some towels and dried them (in the dryer). I get so antsy when we have "weather."

Can't wait to go out and shovel the driveway. It's gotten quite a bit colder but I have enough warm clothing to keep me toasty. This is very pretty.

When I listen to the radio, every time there's a situation on the roads, another truck has jack-knifed. They need to slow down. Personally, I don't drive in snow. later, djb

2012-01-12T08:49:00.002-06:00

Here's the front yard which shows Andrew and Jarrett's candles with just a little bit of snow at 8:46 a.m.
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Thursday, January 12, 2012 - I figured I could take pictures during the day of the snowfall. So, here's my first one of the front yard. You can still see the grass...for now.

Oh yeah, I always take a picture of the driveway. I should go do that. After I took the photo of the pool, I changed the time on my camera. Now, it's correct.

Right, like anyone really cares but me. snow ya later, djb

2012-01-10T06:40:00.002-06:00

Here's Joan, Judy and Bob at Rosita's on Saturday night.
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Tuesday, January 10, 2012 - The phone rang at 4:30 p.m. Saturday afternoon -- it was Joan. She said that Bob and Judy were moving some stuff around between storage facilities.

They were tired and hungry so did we want to meet them at Rosita's... of course, the answer to that is always YES

Of the three pictures I took of the three of them, this one was the best. I always tell Bob that I'm taking the picture for Uncle Gale and Aunt Mary Ellen so he can rest assured that I'm not selling it to the media. haha!

And I'm a member of an exclusive group because I have a picture of Bob Berg SMILING.

Rosita's. What more can I say? Muy bueno. see ya later, djb

2012-01-03T14:50:00.002-06:00

This afternoon (at 1:10 p.m.), I brought some flowers to the grave in remembrance of Jarrett's birthday.
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Tuesday, January 3, 2012 - When I stopped at the grocery store to get Jarrett's flowers, I was saddened to see that they didn't have ORANGE ones, so I had to get red. Oh well, Jarrett liked to wear red, too.

It's a cold, sunny January day for his birthday. Actually, it's a lot better today than the past couple of days!

Happy Birthday, saintly boy. Love you, Mom

2012-01-03T09:27:00.003-06:00

Here's Jarrett and Andrew on Grandma and Grandpa's patio doing their homework.
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Tuesday, January 3, 2010 - This time of year, for many years, the boys and I would go to Florida to get warm and get over our colds and sore throats.

We had SO MUCH fun!!! Usually, it was warm. Although, today, it's going to get to freezing in Casselberry. Brrrr.

I remember one year, we had to wear our winter coats for a few days. The memories. Happy Boofday, Jarrett. love you, mom

2012-01-03T09:20:00.002-06:00

Jarrett's Chess Championship award from 2003
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Tuesday, January 3, 2012 - Happy Boofday, Jarrett!

All of a sudden this morning, I realized that I never took a picture of this award that Jarrett won during the two months of 2003 that he was alive.

Of course, he wished he'd won FIRST PLACE. But considering the fact that they had only recently found out about these special High School Chess Coach's tournaments, it is amazing that he managed to get second place.

The day he and Andrew were buried, he was supposed to be at THE high school chess tournament down in Champaign or Springfield for all the schools in Illinois.

If he was still alive, we might have a beer together. haha Forever in my heart. Love you, honey, your mama

2011-12-31T11:14:00.003-06:00

Happy Boofday - the entire songfest by Andrew. Including a scream from Jarrett which punctuates the ending.
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Saturday, December 31, 2011 - I decided to put this particular video on the boys' blog because it has the beginning of Andrew's Happy Boofday medley to Uncle Boogie and Uncle Wan. haha

The one I put on my website has the first part cut off. Well, that's because I was taken by surprise when he started singing so quickly. Say what? Yikes!

I'm hearing that the sun is shining in downtown Chicago. Here in the country, it's still foggy and overcast. What a difference 43 miles makes in the weather.

Gotta go. Happy New Year, djb

2011-12-22T07:51:00.002-06:00

Here's the ornaments that Diane sent me for Christmas. No, you're not seeing things, this picture is on BOTH blogs.
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Thursday, December 22, 2011 - Because these are Andrew and Jarrett ornaments, I wanted to put them on their blog!

Andrew & Jarrett - Forever in MY heart.

Happy Birthday, Uncle Bergy. Or as Andrew would say, "Happy Boofday, Uncle Boogie." That makes me laugh. bye, djb

2011-12-17T10:02:00.002-06:00

A view of Andrew & Jarrett's candles this morning at 6:58 a.m.
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Saturday, December 17, 2011 - Although I'm not too happy about the snow snowing all over the place, it does look nice when it surrounds the boys' candles.

I'll have to go into the cemetery later today to take a picture of the nativity scene with a light snowy blanket. It could be a lot worse. In fact, last year, you couldn't even SEE the nativity set.

All righty. I've got to find my skedaddling shoes so I can TCB. snow ya later, djb

P.S. I feel much better today. Finally!!!

2011-12-13T06:56:00.002-06:00

Here's Andrew and Jarrett's grave yesterday. It would look way better with a little snow!
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Tuesday, December 13, 2011 - Every day we don't have snow, is a good day for me. If we don't have a white Christmas, I don't even care. We've had plenty of those.

Those two little green & white and red & white candles on either side of the nativity scene are solar powered. They look really cool at night because they illuminate baby Jesus.

And when you drive into the cemetery, those two ornaments on the shepherd's hooks are so bright and pretty, they catch your eye right away.....especially when the sun is shining.

Gotta go. God bless the saintly boys. later, djb

2011-12-10T06:58:00.002-06:00

This photo of the almost full cold moon was taken outside (temp 9 degrees) through the naked trees at 6:19 a.m.
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Saturday, December 10, 2011 - Today is the Full Cold Moon - it becomes full at 9:36 a.m. EST.

Here's the info on how they came up with the moon names on space.com:

A bright full moon on a dark, clear night is always an impressive sight, but did you know that each full moon of the year has its own name? Sometimes, the full moon of each month even has more than one name, all of which originated in antiquity.

Full moon names date back to Native Americans living in what is now the northern and eastern United States. Those tribes of a few hundred years ago kept track of the seasons by giving distinctive names to each recurring full moon. Their names were applied to the entire month in which each occurred.

There were some variations in the full moon names, but in general the same ones were current throughout the Algonquin tribes from New England on west to Lake Superior. European settlers followed their own customs and created some of their own names.

Since the lunar ("synodic") month is roughly 29.5 days in length on average, the dates of the full moon shift from year to year.

When I came downstairs a little before 6 a.m., I didn't need to turn on a light because the moonlight was illuminating the entire downstairs -- coming in through the windows on the west. It was awesome!

snow and moon ya later, djb

2011-12-09T08:09:00.003-06:00

Here's the view in the front yard. I always like to get a picture of Andrew and Jarrett's candles after the first snow. You can see Bud & Rose's nativity scene in their front window.

The other day, I took a telephoto picture of their nativity scene. This is what greets me every morning when I get up.
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Friday, December 9, 2011 - Bud & Rose have had that nativity scene in their front window for many years. This year, they lit it up the day after Thanksgiving.

Obviously, I took the above picture in daylight. What I see when I get up at 5 a.m., is a soft glow emanating in the darkness around the holy family -- Jesus, Mary and Joseph. I love it.

Happy Birthday, Jesus. peace & love, djb

2011-12-07T08:46:00.002-06:00

Here's my TWO purple curly African violets. So gorgeous!
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Wednesday, December 7, 2011 - The other day, I walked over to check on the African violets to see if they needed water and I was amazed and pleasantly surprised to see two blooms.

We always associate African violets with Grandma Berg. She had tons of them in her north window on the farm.

I've never been able to duplicate her success at getting them to flower profusely, but at this point, I'm just happy to see the two flowers because two of anything always reminds me of Andrew and Jarrett.

And Happy Birthday to Jesus! bybybye, djb

2011-11-30T15:39:00.002-06:00

Here's Krissy and Chad on Thanksgiving Day last week.
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Wednesday, November 30, 2011 - We invited Krissy to join us on Thanksgiving. Krissy is Andrew and Jarrett's cousin. And Chad was Andrew and Jarrett's friend.

So, appropriately and thusly, I put this picture on the boys' blogger blog.

We had a very nice time. see ya later, djb

2011-11-26T08:54:00.002-06:00

Andrew's goofin' around with Charlie - who's trying to save his drink. That's how they were. I think that's Mark on the left.
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Saturday, November 26, 2011 - When I came across this picture, I had to laugh. Those guys were always having a good time. They both loved to play baseball.

Well, Andrew did until the stupid coach in his freshman year wouldn't let him play. Never did figure that out. Oh well....we had fun while it lasted. see ya later. bye, djb

2011-11-26T08:46:00.003-06:00

Here's Jarrett and Chad sitting on the grass watching the baseball game. Andrew's standing on the pitcher's mound.
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Saturday, November 26, 2011 - The other day, I came across some pictures from the good old days with Chad and Jarrett and also Charlie and Andrew playing baseball.

On Thanksgiving, Chad mentioned that he didn't like baseball because there was no ACTION. It was just stand around and wait for nothing.

That was also Jarrett's assessment of baseball. B-o-r-i-n-g~~ So funny. see ya later, djb

2011-11-15T17:52:00.002-06:00

Sunday, 11/12/11 at 4:45 p.m. I saw this stunning sunset! I grabbed my camera real quick and ran outside to take this shot.
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Tuesday, November 15, 2011 - We have some really gorgeous sunsets this time of year. Not sure exactly why... but more times than not, we're treated to a spectacular light show when the sun departs.

Can you believe that this month is HALF OVER????? No, me either. In 15 more days, we'll be writing December on everything (or 12). Brrrrr and yikes!!! see ya, djb

2011-11-13T07:03:00.002-06:00

Last Sunday afternoon, I looked out the window and saw THIS. Elliot was helping his dad clean out the gutters. Nice clear telephoto shot.
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Sunday, November 13, 2011 - When I saw them up on the roof, I realized that I would have to clean out our gutters at least one more time. I've cleared out the one in front of the kitchen window twice already. First time was really gross!!

So, yesterday afternoon, I dragged out the ladder and cleaned the front one out for the third time. Then, I went out onto the deck and cleaned out the one that goes all the way along the roof from the front of the house to the spot where it turns into two stories.

Amazingly, it wasn't as full of leaves and sticks as the one in front was. What a nice surprise and that was good for me.

The only part where I had a small problem was right where the edge of the pool is too close to the downspout so I can't get a good angle to climb the ladder right there. As it is, that's the scariest part because it's soooo close to disaster on either side of the downspout. yikes!

And then sometime this week, I'll have to borrow my neighbor's ladder to do the gutters that line the garage on the east side of the house. Thankfully, most of the leaves have been blown down and if they haven't fallen off the trees yet, the winds today are forecast to be 45 to 50 miles per hour.

That should finish them off. oh boy. see ya later, djb

2011-11-06T07:41:00.002-06:00

Here's the golden leaf carpet covering the front yard one day last week.
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Sunday, November 6, 2011 - Every fall, I am thankful to my neighbor, Ron, who told me about the mulching blade! As soon as I could, I got one for the old tractor. Then, when I bought Juanita Querida, she had one on as standard issue. WOW!

It's so much easier to mulch the leaves as opposed to sweeping them up and burning them. That was the bad old days. And everyone smelled like a smoky fire for weeks. Although, there's still a need to burn yard waste such as sticks and gigantic branches that fall on the ground. haha

Don't forget to change the clock in your car. bye, djb

2011-10-21T06:35:00.002-05:00

"They landed among the stars." Whenever I see STARS, I think of Andrew and Jarrett.
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Friday, October 21, 2011 - This day has finally arrived!

Today is the day that I'll be fitted for my own personal PROSE - the prosthetic device for my right eye. OMG!!!

It's 6:38 a.m. right now. I woke up before 5 a.m. so that I could get my three eyedrops in my eye, drink some coffee, wake up, take care of my blogger business, and relax a little bit before the drive into the city....which ALWAYS makes me crazy.

Getting up and getting ready this morning reminded me of all the years I worked in downtown Chicago. It took a long time to get there every day -- but it was worth it.

When I worked in the Research Department at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange in the early 80's, it was the BEST job I ever had. Smart, witty people -- there were five Ph.D. economists among the staff. You'd probably think, b-o-r-i-n-g. But they weren't. It was always a hoot.

Gotta go. SEE ya later. I HOPE. djb

2011-10-12T07:31:00.002-05:00

Here's a closeup of the almost full moon this morning - 6:41 a.m.
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Wednesday, October 12, 2011 - Here's another picture of the full moon that I took right after I took the one on my blogger blog.

Since I'm a day late (and probably a dollar short), I thought I'd put the name of the full moon yesterday on here for your amusement and edification. You're welcome.

October 11, 2011, 10:06 p.m. EDT – Full Hunters' Moon: With the leaves falling and the deer fattened, it's now time to hunt. Since the fields have been reaped, hunters can ride over the stubble, and can more easily see the fox, as well as other animals, which can be caught for a Thanksgiving banquet after the harvest.

Since the moon arrives at apogee about 10 hours later, this will also be the smallest full moon of 2011. In terms of apparent size, it will appear 12.3 percent smaller than the full moon of March 19.

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So, now you know the whole story. No wonder that moon looked so tiny. all righty. see ya later, djb

2011-10-09T10:56:00.004-05:00

The ash tree BEFORE....

the leaves are going......

...the leaves have landed. Here's the carpet of leaves under the ash tree in the back yard near the burn pile.
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Sunday, October 9, 2011 - All this past week, the leaves kept falling off the ash tree. It looked like golden snow. Every once a while, the wind would blow them all over the place.

It really is a colorful fall this year. Plus, it helps that the weather has been so nice and sunny.

Pretty soon, all the trees will be naked and cold. Yikes! djb

2011-09-30T16:53:00.002-05:00

If you look closely, you can see the A on Andrew's scarecrow and the J on Jarrett's.
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Friday, September 30, 2011 - Yesterday, before we got the 40 mph winds, I brought these scarecrows into the cemetery and stuck them in the ground in front of the boys' gravestone.

I thought they were absolutely adorable. Plus, I like the way they have their arms around each other. Awwww, isn't that sweet? YES!

Happy Boofday, Mom. Love you!

2011-09-22T08:54:00.002-05:00

Here's the boys' basketball hoop. Now, I play "horse" with Rachel. She actually has pretty good aim.
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Thursday, September 22, 2011 - I wanted to put something related to the boys on "their" blog. Of course, I got a photo of the hoop near the big, empty flower bed.

When the boys were ALIVE, they were always doing something in the driveway -- playing basketball, riding bikes, roller blading, whatever.

I remember one time Jarrett and Chad dug a HUGE hole in the midst of the evergreens on the other side of the driveway and put something over the top so that if a "bad guy" happened to be sneaking around in there, he'd fall in their trap. haha

Yeah. I made them fill in the hole with dirt. What if a skunk fell in there and couldn't get out?? Or me?

Their basketballs always managed to fall or roll or land in the big flower bed. "Sorry, Mom."

No problem, I told them. That's why I plant so many flowers. Just in case your ball lands on top of one of them.

And grass wasn't supposed to be perfect. It was the outdoor carpet for boys to play on. We NEVER put any chemicals on the grass in the back yard -- that's where they played. And the dandelions loved it. see ya later, djb

2011-09-15T06:49:00.002-05:00

SCARY PHOTO: This is what greeted me today!!!!!!!!!!!
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Thursday, September 15, 2011 - I knew it was cool outside this morning, but I didn't think we went all the way down into the 30's until I heard someone on the radio say that it was that cold in the far western suburbs. Say what?

So, I picked up the thermometer and was astounded to see the above reading! That is just plain scary. Ice ya later, djb

2011-09-13T17:47:00.002-05:00

The full moon, minus one day, at 5:35 a.m. this morning.
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Tuesday, September 13, 2011 - This morning, the clouds were gone but the trees kind of blocked my view. Plus, I have to use a long setting so I have to remain still and hold the camera against the fence so it won't move.

Kind of nice to see the moon setting in the west while the sun is rising in the east. yeah. Sweeeeet. later, djb

2011-09-12T06:08:00.002-05:00

Here's the Sears Tower (I mean Willis Tower) poking into the clouds on September 9th - taken from the Illinois Medical District in Chicago.
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Monday, September 12, 2011 - For some reason, when I was in Chicago last Friday, I felt a need to take a picture of the Sears Tower. It is interesting that Lake Michigan has such a profound effect on the weather down there.

I do remember when I worked "downtown," it would be snowing and cold but by the time I got home, it would be sunny and nice.

Of course, the people who lived down there, thought we took a covered wagon to work every day. After all, we were hicks from the sticks. hahaha see ya later, djb

2011-09-11T10:54:00.002-05:00

Sears Tower - December 1984 (now, it's called the Willis Tower)
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Sunday, 9-11-11 - I remember exactly where I was (in the kitchen, standing at the counter) when I heard about the first plane hitting the first tower from a special report on the radio. WHAT? I immediately turned on CNN and it remained on for the rest of the day.

The other thing I distinctly remember was wondering about Chuck because he lived in New Jersey. Not far from New York City across the river, as I recall. He could see it from work.

A few days later, I received some photos that he had taken of the devastation. Not sure where they are now?? That was 10 years ago and we weren't quite as photo smart as we've eventually become over the years.

Plus, back in my CME days, I stayed at the Vista Hotel during my only visit (for work) in New York City. That was the hotel between the towers. How weird to have been somewhere that got attacked by crazed lunatics.

Also, Andrew and Jarrett were alive ten years ago. Andrew's golf meet with Geneva was cancelled. The kids were NOT happy. The terrorists aren't coming to get us -- we're out in the middle of corn fields. We want to play golf.

Jarrett had me take him to the skate park in St. Charles because he told me that I needed to get away from the TV coverage that I had been watching all day. And he needed to practice some of his smooth moves.

I feel so very sorry for everyone who lost someone because of this horrendous attack. They have my complete and total sympathy. God bless them all. peace would be nice, djb

2011-09-05T10:28:00.002-05:00

This picture of Jarrett and Grandpa Burkholder sitting by the fire at Woodhaven reminds me of this time of year & Grandpa's birthday.
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Monday, September 5, 2011 - Happy Birthday to Grandpa! We'd have his birthday party most years out at Woodhaven so that everyone could come to it since it was more centrally located or maybe because it wasn't -- maybe because it was where Grandma and Grandpa lived in the summer....

Any time I smell wood or leaves burning outside, my entire being is transported to Woodhaven. There was ALWAYS a fire burning -- if not in their burn pit -- then in someone else's. It was thick or overpowering, it was the way it was out there.

FLASHBACK: It must have been March 3, 2005 -- yeah, that's right. Bob and I were sitting at the gravestone bundled up within an inch of our lives (before noon), when all of a sudden, we smelled the distinct aroma of wood burning.

At the same time, we both said, "It's Grandpa." Back in those days, we were still getting signs. Now, not so much.

It didn't last very long at all -- then quickly as it came, it was GONE. So, what else could one conclude. Yes. It was Grandpa. And thanks again, djb

2011-08-20T10:34:00.002-05:00

Here's Andrew & Jarrett's evergreen trees earlier this summer.
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Saturday, August 20, 2011 - I couldn't believe that it was two years ago yesterday that they moved Andrew and Jarrett's trees to their present location. Yes, time flies....

It kind looks like there's a space in Jarrett's tree but since I took this photo in June, we've had more rain and his tree has really filled out nicely.

I thought I'd taken more recent photos of their trees but I hadn't. Of course, there are pictures in my mind. Kind of hard for others to see those!!

see ya later, djb

2011-08-13T14:02:00.002-05:00

After I went in to mail Grandpa's birthday envelope, I stopped by Andrew and Jarrett's grave to trim the plants.
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Saturday, August 13, 2011 - When I saw the picture Mark (who was with Matt) put on Facebook a few weeks ago, I realized that I needed to do some pruning of the Stellas because you couldn't even see their names any more.

I noticed that there are some new buds forming. That's why I like Stella d'oros.... because they bloom more than once. Plus, it's my Grandma's name.

Storm is coming or not... we'll see what happens. later, djb

2011-08-07T07:29:00.002-05:00

Here's the purple and yellow petunia plant with the two different sweet potato vines of which the chartreuse one is out of control!
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Sunday, August 7, 2011 - It's already the 7th of August - Happy Birthday, Julie....even though you'll never read this.

It's already 7:30 a.m., so that means I've been awake for three hours. Time flies when you're a busy body. haha

I have to take care of some business but I wanted to put that picture in here so I could see it. That plant is going to take over the entire deck pretty soon. see ya later, djb

2011-07-27T18:12:00.002-05:00

Here's Grandpa Cardinal on top of the huge evergreen tree.
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Wednesday, July 27, 2011 - So, this afternoon, I vacuumed the carpet that's outside near the deck (where the bees used to live). It didn't seem to be working all that well.

Then, I found out WHY. When I opened it up to take out the bag, it full to overflowing. WOW! Plus, it was very heavy.

Seemed to be making a weird noise, too. So, I took everything apart on the bottom vacuum head. It was SO dirty.

After I cleaned it and put it back together, I thought I had it perfectly reconstructed. NOT. The rubber thing that goes around the teeth (can't remember the name right now) to make the bottom part move, came off.

I had to get a flashlight and use a screwdriver to get it back on a little mechanism far inside that I could barely see. But, I finally succeeded and was able to vacuum. Whew!

I know all of those parts have names but I just wanted to write in here so I'll remember when I cleaned the vacuum. bye, djb

2011-07-22T08:39:00.002-05:00

It's star gazer day. These are such beautiful flowers and they smell good, too!!!
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Friday, July 22, 2011 - I can't believe it's already the 22nd of July. WOW! Pretty soon, it will be August and then Elburn Days, Grandpa and Gladys's birthday and then school starts.

It's getting darker here. I think the storm's getting closer. bye, djb

2011-07-19T15:31:00.002-05:00

Andrew and Jarrett's pond garden 5 years ago. WOW!
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Tuesday, July 19, 2011 - After trying to get the pond in shape for the past few years, I finally had to fill it in with 27 bags of top soil. It just got to be overgrown and overwhelming to take care of.

Everything grew out of control -- especially in 2008 when I had the shingles in my eye. Then, the next year, I wasn't doing all that great.

I have to severely prune EVERYTHING. For some crazy reason, I love to grow flowers, trees, bushes, veggies.... whatever. Then, they get REALLY big. yikes!

Time to go outside and fry an egg on the deck. gobble gobble. later, djb

2011-07-11T13:27:00.003-05:00

Here's a picture of froggie right behind Jarrett the Duck -- who is next to Andrew the Dolphin - next to tons of crap in the pool.
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Monday, Stormy Monday - July 11, 2011 - It was raining frogs in Elburn this morning (see accompanying photo).

Yesterday, the pool was pristine and spotless and gorgeous. Chad remarked that, "This is the best I've ever seen the pool look. It's perfect." Well, that was yesterday and today is yikes!

I have a lot of work ahead of me but if I clean everything up then Bob won't know how much I did because it'll all be done and he won't know what a freaking, ugly, nightmare of a mess it is out there.

"oh, we had a storm? It looks so clean."

Plus, I can't go in the pool to cool off. It is certainly a situation. later, djb

P.S. I talked to my neighbor, Brenda. She and Scott were driving back from south of Sterling. Brenda said that the corn fields out that way were FLATTENED. She was little apprehensive about what they'd find when they got home but apparently we got hit by the small hammer and the folks further west and up north got hit by the large sledge hammer!!! ouch.

2011-07-11T10:48:00.002-05:00

A personal disaster: Here's where poor Shamu landed after he was blown by hurricane force winds this morning.
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Monday, Stormy Monday, July 11, 2011 - I just finished writing on Donna's Blog, so I thought I'd add a few more storm-related comments here on the boys' blog.

From The Chicago Tribune Website:

Driving rain and hail pelted the Chicago area as fast-moving thunderstorms packing 75 mph winds halted flights, stopped trains. As of 10 a.m., Commonwealth Edison reported 660,000 customers without power: 298,000 north of the city, 156,000 west of the city, 116,000 in Chicago and Maywood, 90,000 in the south.

In the Crystal Lake area, more than 10,000 were without power, according to the ComEd outage map. “There are quite a few power lines and trees down,” said Pay Alaynick, Crystal Lake Police Department office coordinator. “Residents need to be careful.”

The storms hit the area around 8 a.m., with Doppler radar showing a line of severe thunderstorms capable of producing 70 mph winds and quarter-size hail.

The storms moved in at 70 mph. Midway Airport clocked winds of 75 mph and O'Hare Airport saw 63 mph winds mph as 65 mph winds hit Naperville. High high winds downed trees in Warrenville and other area towns.

This is wild! I'm thankful that things weren't any worse than they were. And to think that Saturday and Sunday were such perfectly gorgeous days. Especially Saturday. see ya later, djb

2011-07-10T12:51:00.002-05:00

Here are the three crosses on Keslinger Road that mark the spot where Andrew and Jarrett went to heaven.
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Sunday, July 10, 2011 - As we were driving back from Rosita's on Keslinger, I kept looking back to see if anyone was behind us so I could take a picture of the boys' crosses.

No one was. So I did.

They've done extensive pruning of the trees along that fence where the crosses are secured. Now, you can really see very well.

God bless whoever had the idea to put them inside the fence so I didn't have to go out there and weed whack the grass every week.

Plus, it looks to me like someone painted Jarrett's name darker? If so, that's sweet. ......now, I seriously have to go outside and swim -- well, it's actually doggie paddling. later, djb

2011-06-27T07:19:00.003-05:00

Looking down the hill yesterday with Andrew's tree in the foreground and Jarrett's tree further down -- and way further down is their grave.

And here's what Andrew and Jarrett's grave looked like yesterday - the Stella d'oro daylilies are in full bloom. Just gorgeous!!
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Monday, June 27, 2011 - When I stopped by the boys' grave yesterday, I could NOT believe how great the Stella d'oros look. They've finally come into their own. WOW!

I just realized that I should also put a picture of their evergreen trees on here. Okay, let me go do that......done.

Jarrett's tree is growing like a weed. I took a couple of pictures looking up the hill at both of them. WOW! It's a good thing
Fred recommended moving them sooner rather than later or we'd surely be in big trouble.

Or someone would have had a nice Christmas tree last year. gotta go...bye for now. djb

2011-06-20T06:30:00.003-05:00

Here's the Peace Rose that's on the lower right side next to Jarrett's tree (below). It totally surprised me by its bloomage and also the fact that none of the deer have eaten it yet. WOW!

Here's Jarrett's white pine tree that he got in third grade. It has really taken off. And, you can almost see the Peace Rose on the right side.
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Monday, June 20, 2011 - It's almost summer! As I write this, we're having a large group of thunderstorms moving through the area. At this moment, it's dark as night but very quiet except for the distant sounds of thunder rumbling...

Yikes! That could be the "calm before the storm." It's so weird to have it so dark in the morning. Usually, I'm trying to keep the sun out of my eyes when I'm sitting here. That's funny.

Better go put in a picture of the Peace Rose. bye, djb

2011-06-09T08:00:00.002-05:00

Here's the pool this morning at 7:36 a.m. Don't have to put any water in it today, Mother Nature is helping fill it up.
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Thursday, June 9, 2011 - Yesterday - early afternoon while the temperature was 92 degrees - I painstakingly vacuumed the pool, scrubbed it with the scrubby brush and skimmed out all of the leaves and little weasels. It was perfectly gorgeous & clear.

When Bob got home from work, he had to go in the pool to take a dip because by then, I think the temperature was around 94 degrees. At 9:30 last night, it was still 85.

Now, it's around 65 degrees. That'll be the high for today. We're in for a lot of stormy weather. Isn't there a song about that? haha see ya later, djb

2011-05-30T11:09:00.002-05:00

This is a picture of the rain coming down in buckets yesterday! The cover is still on the pool. It is supposed to be coming off today around noon.
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Monday, May 30, 3011 - Memorial Day. We had a horrible thunderstorm yesterday....no, make that two intense systems that went through here in the late morning and again in the early afternoon dropping a total of 3.12 inches in Elburn.

I had planned to go into the cemetery to put some red, white and blue decorations on the boys' grave but had to wait until 4:30 before I could safely drive on the roads. Everything was flooded!!

I put two patriotic pinwheels in front of their evergreen trees. They already had the portable bleachers set up near the road by their trees. The pinwheels are cute and there's a lot of wind.

This morning, at 9 a.m., they were having the Memorial Day observance at Blackberry Cemetery as they have for many years. Bruce Conley always played Taps. I'm sure they'll play the tape of his rendition. He was the BEST.

They take such great care of our cemetery. It looks so perfect and beautiful. It's a very lovely, final resting place. God bless them all. djb

2011-05-28T08:00:00.004-05:00

Here's a picture of Annie Oaktree. It's not the one I really want to put in here but at least you can see how TALL she is.
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Saturday, May 28, 2011 - You can find anything you want on the internet. Amazing, isn't it. When I looked for beneficial fungus for oak trees, this is what I found at treehelp.com:

Mycorrhizal Fungi -Mycorrhizal fungi is a relatively new soil treatment for trees. Co-existing with trees and plants in nature for hundreds of millions of years, these beneficial fungi provide a "safety net" for the tree in times of stress. By colonizing the roots and extending themselves further into the soil, the fungi enable the tree to take in more nutrients and moisture. The result is a healthier, more robust tree better capable of withstanding the many stressful conditions that exist in an urban environment.

The term 'mycorrhizae' describes a symbiotic relationship between beneficial fungi and plants. Mycorrhizal fungi live in and around the roots of most plants. In exchange for sugars and simple carbohydrates, the mycorrhizal fungi absorb and pass on minerals and moisture required for the plant's growth.

In nature, mycorrhizal fungi are found on about 99% of plant species, but in urban environments, the poor, compacted soils often lack this essential fungi.

from: www.treehelp.com

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The other day, I dug 40 six-inch deep holes around the drip line of Annie Oaktree so I could put the mycorrhizal fungi in and cover it up and soak the earth around it.

I did the first watering and Mother Nature did the next one. Hopefully, the fungi is going to fix everything. But on Monday, I have to dig more holes in the ground to put in the fertilizer that is specific to oak trees.

It's going to be 90 degrees on Monday (the REAL Memorial Day). That should be a fun job. see ya later. djb

2011-05-06T08:14:00.002-05:00

Andrew's white pine tree. He brought it home from school when he was in third grade. And look at it now!
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Friday, May 6, 2011 - One of the main reasons that I wanted to have professional tree trimmers take care of the pruning job this spring was to clear the branches around Andrew's white pine tree so it can grow unimpeded.

A few years ago, I managed to chop off a few branches here and there on that offending maple but I don't have a tall enough ladder to reach the higher branches. Probably a good thing.

I love trees. And I love flowers. I'm beginning to like grass a little bit. But I HATE quack-grass. And for some reason, it likes to grow near the road in the front yard. yuk!!!

The only way to get rid of it is to kill it with noxious chemicals, wait a while and then plant some grass. Actually not a bad idea. haha Now, it's really time to skedaddle. later, djb

P.S. Word to the Wise: NEVER, EVER, EVER plant zoysia grass. It turns brown in the winter and looks ugly, uglier, ugliest!!!! (although it is soft underfoot....)

2011-04-26T09:13:00.002-05:00

Andrew and Jarrett's grave on Easter Sunday (April 24, 2011).
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Tuesday, April 26, 2011 - On my way to the grocery store, Sunday afternoon, I stopped by the boys' grave to take a picture of the flowers coming up.

I can't believe they've been gone for 8 years. That just doesn't seem real to me. Time has stood still for so long.

God bless Andrew. God bless Jarrett. Miss you guys!! Love ya, Mom

2011-04-10T09:39:00.002-05:00

Here's a shot of the daffodils coming up in Andrew and Jarrett's pond garden.
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Sunday, April 10, 2011 - Last Sunday, I spent 4 hours cleaning out Andrew and Jarrett's pong garden, and I'm so glad I did because now I can actually see the bulbs that have come up and are now blooming.

Yesterday, on my sister's birthday, I didn't ever get to talk to her in person and wish her a happy boofday because I was up and gone early. Then, she was up and gone, apparently.

I called a couple of times. The last time, I did sing Happy Birthday. I'm pretty sure that probably broke the answering machine. When the boys were alive, and I would TRY to sing, they would beg me to stop. "Please mom, stop singing."

hahaha That makes me laugh. It's good to laugh.

Went to see Dr. Lee yesterday morning in Naperville. I had to drive on Interstate 88. Haven't had occasion to drive on a FAST road for a long time. WOW! I was going at least 75 and people were driving by me like I was standing still.

...and I was in the SLOW lane. If I went any slower, I would've been whacked. What a riot. At least, on Saturday morning, there aren't quite as many cars out there as on a week day.

Dr. Lee put collagen plugs in each of the tear ducts in my right eye. The difference is noticeable and remarkable. Whew! I'm SO glad that if I need to see her on the weekend, I can always go to Naperville. It only took 30 minutes to get there.

It's amazing. I guess that's why President Eisenhower suggested the interstate highway system be built soooo many years ago. God bless him. Just wish people didn't HAVE TO drive SO FAST. One mistake, and you're in big trouble. yikes!!

Now, I really have to go take care of business. If there are any typos or brainos in this, I'm going to blame this keyboard. It's hard to use. The spacebar doesn't space. Annoying!! bye, djb

2011-04-01T06:36:00.002-05:00

To the left of the flowering crab tree and proceeding all the way to the honeysuckle bushes at the opposite end of the yard is where the destruction occurred. (the above photo is from many years ago.)
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Friday, April 1, 2011 - April Fool's Day!!!

This is not an April Fool's joke.... Much to my horror and dismay, those nasty moles made a tunnel inside the trench that was dug in the yard where the cable for the TV and the internet was buried last summer. They didn't bother the telephone trench - that has remained intact....for now.

Seriously? yeah.

Not only that but there are off-ramps from the main cable freeway that go in many directions around the yard. It is absolutely hysterical that those little moles were out there tunneling to their heart's content.

Have you ever seen a mole? They are certainly God's ugliest creature.....ever!!! A few years ago, we found one in the pond out in the back yard - creepy, ugly and dead. I can't even imagine what purpose they serve. Kind of like mosquitoes.

All right. I'd better go out and get the papers before it rains or snows. It's supposed to be a yukky weather day. Of course, it'll be nothing like what they had in Florida for the past few days. Mini-hurricanes....yikes! see ya later, djb

2011-03-30T11:37:00.003-05:00

This picture of Andrew and Jarrett in front of the staghorn fern was taken (in Florida) in January or February 1990 - that's 21 years ago. But I gave Bergs the staghorn in 1980. So it's now 31 years old!
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Wednesday, March 30, 2011 - Hap Birth to

I LOVE that picture!!! It reminds me of so many happy times we spent in Florida in the winters when it was brutally cold up here. The fact that Grandpa and Grandma put up with us for a month is a testament to their strong and hardy constitutions. Being around the boys was never relaxing.

Although, when I now walk around Crystal Bowl Circle, I always remember the little park that used to be there. We'd walk over to play on the equipment. It would get rid of "some" of their extra energy.

I still can't believe they've been dead for 8 years. That just can't be true. How did all those days go by so fast??? And yet, so very slow.... One sad, pitiful day at a time.

I do pray for their souls every single day -- and every day, I wish they were here with me. It still makes NO sense -- and it never will.

What really impairs any sort of recovery from the hell I live in is that EVERYTHING reminds me of them.

Yeah, like in the past couple of weeks, their cousins, Karen, Gayla and Krissy, all had birthdays. And I have pictures of them with Andrew and Jarrett -- when they were younger.

Now, they're forever 15 and 17. Frozen in time. It's weird. djb

2011-03-13T07:02:00.002-05:00

This is cropped from a larger photo that I took at the cemetery on March 3rd. Ryan brought the flowers from their family. His mom always orders them from Kar-Free (I think that's how you spell it?) in Sycamore.
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Sunday, March 13, 2011 - I want to take a better picture of the flowers that Tim & Teri and Ryan gave us in memory of the boys but this is what I have for now. It has become an interesting adventure for all of us to try to get together on March 3rd or whenever we can ......

So, last night, we met Tim and Teri at the Claddagh in Geneva. Coincidentally, that's where Ryan's been working for almost a year. We had a GREAT time!!! And Ryan was our waiter. As I was typing the word claddagh, I wondered what it meant so I looked it up and here it is:

The symbol of the Claddagh Ring

The hands are there for friendship,
The heart is there for love.
For loyalty throughout the year,
The crown is raised above.

The symbol of the Claddagh Ring dates back to a fishing village in Galway known as Claddagh village. It represents the fishing Kings of Claddagh, whose motto was "in love and friendship let us reign." Later in the 17th century the symbol was made into a ring which became a popular gift throughout Galway. Tradition says that the heart is worn outward to show that the wearer is "heart whole and fancy free." Many Claddagh Rings have become family heirlooms and are a gift to be passed down from the mother and worn by a daughter on her wedding day.

© www.of-ireland.info since 1999

Of course, since this is an Irish restaurant, they are seriously gearing up for St. Patrick's Day, which to lots of people means drinking green beer, etc. With the notable exception being my mother who really is 100% Irish -- she wouldn't touch the stuff with a 10 foot leprechaun! haha

It's always good to wake up every day and learn something new to keep your brain active. So, you've got Irish info here and Earthquake info on my blog.

Faith and beggorah to ya darlin' ~djb

2011-03-12T09:17:00.002-06:00

Jarrett was about 4 months old, Andrew was two. This was taken at Brookfield Zoo twenty-three (23) years ago next month. And I'm sure Jarrett's stroller was recalled years later. Plus, I don't drink Coke any more for soooo many reasons.
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Saturday, March 12, 2011 - If I write in one of my blogs, I like to write in the other one because I am a Libra, after all. And things must be balanced. No, wait. We seek balance...

It's one of those days where you wish you had gone on spring break to a warmer climate. Although, it's not all that warm in Florida today. Not like when we were there on February 27th.

We had the most perfect weather you could ask for. In fact, Granny did order 80 degrees for me because she knows how much I love 82 degrees. I know it sounds crazy, but I can tell when it is that particular temp.

Because I'll say, check the thermometer, I think it's 82. And 99 times out of 100, it is. I'm right. It's that one time out of 100 when it's actually 83 degrees. haha

Yesterday, I came across a photo on my old computer that I thought was absolutely gorgeous --blue cornflowers and a yellow finch. Yeah, it was a picture that I took myself. What a shock. I must find out where it is. That should be fun.

see ya later, djb

2011-03-05T12:38:00.002-06:00

The robins have returned from their winter vacation in Florida.
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These robins were digging in and tossing the leaves around. I have no idea what they were looking for. It was hilarious.
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Saturday, March 5, 2011 - I looked out the kitchen window a few minutes ago and this is what I saw. A couple dozen robins wandering around in the front yard.

Also, there was Sammy Squirrel and Papa Cardinal. Quite an animal reunion. We're getting flurries but no big snow storm is predicted. But, you never know.

It's wonderful to see them again! oh boy! Spring can't be far behind. later, djb

2011-03-03T06:57:00.003-06:00

Jarrett's holding Hobbes and Andrew's holding Sable. I like this picture because the gang was all here.
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Thursday, March 3, 2011 - Yesterday, I spent a LOT of time working on my website with the sun was shining right in my eyes, so after a few hours, I had to take a break.

I finished up everything this morning before 7 a.m. The one thing I hadn't done was update their obituaries. Maybe I was subconsciously avoiding that task.

When I read those, it reminds me of not only the boys, but Bruce Conley who died on September 11th this past year. He was a rock during their deaths and preparation for the funeral.

PLUS, there is nothing like an obituary written by Bruce. He was the master. I still remember sitting with him and telling him about first, Jarrett....and then, Andrew. It was as though he actually knew them personally when all was said and done -- and written.

Need more coffee. GOD BLESS ANDREW. GOD BLESS JARRETT. Miss you weasels. Love you forever, mom

2011-02-19T17:18:00.003-06:00

At first when I looked out, I only saw the black and white kitty on the steps, then I saw a shadow move and saw the little guy on the deck, and I was able to weasel the camera around the get both of them.
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After a while, the black and white kitty came through the gate to hang out with his buddy. What a hoot!
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Saturday, February 19, 2011 - It was so funny to see them both outside. At first, I couldn't see the little kitty. He's been very elusive. However, I have heard them yowling at night. That's a real nice waker-upper. NOT!

It's so funny that they've found each other. I'm torn about feeding them because I think the little guy is definitely a feral cat. He was outside during the below zero weather and apparently is quite hardy.

They were very skittish, so I had to hide behind one of my plants to get their pictures. No quick movements. They did keep looking at me through the window. And they didn't skedaddle until Bob came home and opened the garage door.

Haven't seen them since but I'm sure they'll be back. It's so cute. bye for now, djb

2011-02-15T17:45:00.002-06:00

Here's the balloons and flowers I brought to the cemetery for Andrew's birthday. Notice that the snow is starting to melt....a little bit.
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Tuesday, February 15, 2011 - Happy Birthday, Andrew!

As is my custom when the snow isn't too deep on the boys' birthday, I brought in some festiveness to the grave today.

As I was bending over and taking off Jarrett's balloons that got whacked by the blizzard, two ladies walked over through the snow to the grave and began proselytizing. Imagine my surprise. I mean, WHO goes out there in the winter!?

I wasn't particularly offended. Surprised, yes. It did seem sort of inappropriate to be stalking people in a cemetery BUT I knew that Andrew sent them.

Jesus loves me, this I know. Hey, we sang that at their funeral. Andrew just wanted to remind me. What an interesting development.

I need to call Fred tomorrow about more security at the cemetery! Happy Boofday, my sweetie. Love you forever, Mom

2011-02-10T08:22:00.002-06:00

Yesterday afternoon, I heard a loud noise outside, when I looked out, this is what I saw!
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Thursday, February 10, 2011 - Apparently, the township sent this guy out to move some of the gigantic snow mountains away from the street.

It would've been easier to do if it hadn't been garbage day. But he did move one of our ginormous piles back from the road. I'll have to get a picture of that when the temperature gets up to zero.

Right now, it's still 10 below. It was down to 12 below for a short time. It always does that shortly after the sun comes up. Yes, it does seem counter-intuitive. I'm sure there's a logical meteorological explanation.

And, the birdies are outside congregating around the bird feeder like a bunch of crazed lunatics. I imagine they're just a little bit COLD!! Chirp, chirp, brrrrrrrrrrrrr bye, djb

2011-02-05T13:34:00.002-06:00

Here's the sunset last night. This was taken around 5:30 p.m. Definitely lighter later. oh boy!
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Saturday, February 5, 2011 - Last night, when I looked outside, this sunset stopped me in my tracks. Gotta get my camera, so said I.

I had to put shoes on and went outside on the part of the green carpet that is shoveled. Then, I snapped a few pictures...

Then, when I came back in, the sky got darker and more brilliant looking. So, I had to go back out and snap some more.

I LOVE the sunsets this time of year. They kind of make up for all the mountains and mountains and mountains of SNOW. Kind of....

This snow is NEVER going to melt. Maybe in June...

Icy ya later, djb

2011-02-04T07:15:00.002-06:00

Here's Woody at the feeder yesterday. I just love seeing the birdies enjoying themselves.
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Here's Mama Cardinal pausing and posing. That greyish/bluish darkness behind the bird feeders is the HUGE pile of snow alongside the road.
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Friday, February 4, 2011 - Yesterday, I had blizzard fatigue. I just couldn't write about snow or anything related to snow. When you think about how long this is going to be around, it is kind of depressing. Although it's still quite beautiful.

The morning after the blizzard, I still remember feeling trapped and somewhat claustrophobic when I looked outside and saw the gigantic pile of snow left by the snow plow at the end of the driveway. You couldn't get out of here if you wanted to.

Not that there was anywhere to go. Everything was shut down. Life pretty much came to a standstill.

And I just now heard on the radio that we have MORE brutal weather coming next week. This time, it's just more below zero days.....not two feet of snow! So, I guess that's a good thing.

I was thinking last night.... what if we get another 20 inches of snow??? WHAT in the world would happen then??? Right now, there are so many huge mounds of snow, it boggles the mind. Huge doesn't even begin to describe it....more like GARGANTUAN MOUNTAINS. Yeah, that big.

bye for now, djb

2011-02-02T06:55:00.002-06:00

Here's the view outside on the deck at 6:48 a.m. That snow drift is probably 4 feet high. There's lots and lots of snow out there. Plus, the winds have picked up considerably. Yikes!!
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Wednesday, February 2, 2011 - Second posting of the day.

The sky is getting brighter outside. So now, I can see just how much snow we did get. A LOT.

Amazingly enough, about 6:45, the snow plow went by. I could NOT believe it. What an exercise in futility. You can't even tell that he was there. Talk about zero footprint.

You know you're in for trouble when Jim Cantore of the Weather Channel comes to your town! He was in Chicago last night. The last time I saw him, he was surrounded by lots of snow and was being blown around like he was in a Snowicane.

Two things I found out - no garbage pickup today. (I already knew that was a no go.) And our newspapers will be late. Hopefully, they just forget about it today. Even if they do deliver them, how is anyone going to find them in the deep snow???

And you really don't want the snow blower to find them!

later....djb

2011-02-02T05:35:00.003-06:00

This is what the driveway looked like at 5:13 a.m. this morning. It's still snowing but the blizzard-effect has subsided somewhat. That means that a person can actually see across the street! Last night, I couldn't see Gene's house.
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Wednesday, February 2, 2011 - HAPPY GROUNDHOG DAY and HAPPY AFTER-THE-BLIZZARD DAY!!

The first thing I heard on the radio when I woke up just after 4 a.m. was: "the roads in western Kane County are virtually impassable." Hey, that's where we live. Yikes!! That would explain why I haven't seen the snowplow or any other cars go by since forever.

The next thing I heard was that McHenry County had been declared to be in a state of Emergency. And I thought we were in the state of Illinois.... Yikes and double yikes!

I couldn't take many pictures of the blizzard last night because they would all have looked like the picture up above. Plus, I don't subject my camera to less than ideal conditions. And yesterday was the least ideal I've seen in a long time.

The snow wasn't the scary part -- it was the 50+ mile per hour wind gusts. That's what makes it a blizzard. Winds above 40 mph and snows that cause zero visibility for 3 hours. Check, check and double check.

I don't understand WHY people didn't listen to the advice of anyone who told them NOT to drive yesterday afternoon and evening. The only person I can imagine who would be essential is an ER doctor, maybe a cardiologist....

You don't really need an obstetrician to have a baby. Most obstetrics nurses could probably handle it as well as the doctor.

Besides....when you go to any hospital -- unless you're bleeding profusely or your bone is sticking out of your skin, they usually just poke an IV into your vein and tell you they're going to do some TESTS first. And, the doctor will be in to see you...... later. haha

This is from the Chicago Tribune online (4:21 a.m):

Kane County Lt. Sheriff Pat Gengler warned that all roads in western Kane County are impassable and closed.

“At this time plows are not able to run and tow trucks are also not functioning,” he said in an e-mail. “Anyone who attempts to travel does so with very little chance of immediate assistance should they become stuck.”

All I can say is, WOW! and Stay Home, people.

Better go make some more coffee. Happy Groundhog Day, djb

2011-02-01T13:36:00.004-06:00

Grandpa is pulling Diane and Ron on the sled (on the farm) during the winter of 1969. If you look close, you can see the stogie in his mouth.
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Here's Uncle Ron and Aunt Diane sitting on the sled in DeKalb in November 1969.
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Tuesday, February 1, 2011 - Okay, so you know what I did this morning -- scanned and cropped SNOW pictures!

I think we're getting snow fatigue. That's what the people who live out east already have. We're tired of all this white stuff falling from the sky and making everything beautiful.

Plus, annoying....

Who said, "I'm dreaming of a white Groundhog Day?" Oh yeah, that was Bill Murray, right.

Better go check the Weather Channel for more hysteria. Big snow ya later,djb

2011-01-29T11:28:00.002-06:00

It might be a little hard to see, but there are TONS of hoof prints all over the front yard!
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Saturday, January 29, 2011 - Last week, early one morning, I looked out the front window and saw a doe standing quietly and serenely at the bird feeder eating bird seed.

It was 4:14 a.m. Too dark to take a photo. But it's etched in my brain forever. Simply and sweetly beautiful. After a time, she slowly walked away toward the woods.

In the morning, I noted that there were only two sets of prints in the yard. One set where she came in to the feeder and the other set where she left.

Apparently, she's QUITE a blabbermouth because when I looked out this morning, the first thing I noticed was that the feeders were almost empty. The other day, they were full....

Hmmm. Then, I saw all the hoof prints all over the place in the front yard. Coming and going in every direction. It was cool to see. I tried to capture the brouhaha in the picture above.

WOW! Too bad I wasn't awake to see that party! later, djb

2011-01-21T06:31:00.002-06:00

Here's our neighbor's house (Gene) before the transformation.
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Here's Gene's house yesterday afternoon. It looks yellow but it's really more of a light brownish (tan) color.
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Friday, January 21, 2011 - This is what I've been watching for the past week. Gene and Brenda's ugly brown 1970's era house has been turned into a modern looking, cute as a bug, updated, 21st century home. I love it.

It's funny because his original color is not unlike the color of our house. Although we have more of a reddish tone, it's still that dark, dated cedar siding.

I've been taking pictures since they started because there's not much else a person can do in this weather. And those guys who are working out there in the COLD....I sure hope they're not planning on being out there today. It would be very dangerous.

Hey, that's one of the reason Bergs moved to Florida. Too darn cold in northern Illinois in the winter. I second that emotion.

brrrr and icicle ya later, djb

2011-01-17T11:55:00.002-06:00

This is the view of the driveway this morning at 8:45 a.m.
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Monday, January 17, 2011 - I'm not sure if it was snowing when I got up a little before 6 a.m., but I think it started shortly thereafter and hasn't let up since then.

For a while, you could barely see across the street. Now, it's just light flurries. They're saying we might get sleety rain and ice. Boy! That sounds like fun, eh?

sleet ya later, djb

2011-01-12T10:16:00.002-06:00

This was taken at 8:26 a.m. this morning. You can see the sun coming up behind the trees. That's very cool.
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Wednesday, January 12, 2011 - We finally have fresh snow covering the ugly grass once again. But we all knew that would happen sooner or later. Hate those mid-winter thaws that get rid of all the snow. It's very confusing -- is it still winter??

I totally feel sorry for all those people in the south -- especially Atlanta -- they got so much snow and tons of ice. I read some comments from Yankees making fun of the southerners. BUT, I've driven in Georgia and it's not easy even when the weather conditions are perfect.

Flatlanders have a hard time with all the mountains, hills and curvy roads. We're used to FLAT LAND. That's why they call us flatlanders. Get it? gotta go....bye....djb

2011-01-11T12:57:00.002-06:00

Here's the kitty that was sitting on the edge of the pool (in the sun) yesterday. Now I know where those kitty-cat pawprints came from!
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Snow on the pool and evergreens in the back where only yesterday the kitty was sitting on the edge right there!
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Tuesday - 1-11-11 - It was so exciting to see that kitty cat out there yesterday. He's been walking around in the driveway for a long time because I've seen his paw prints. I knew it wasn't a raccoon -- and I hoped it wasn't the skunk. yikes!

It's time to go out and tackle the driveway. When I watched the weather at 12:30, I noticed that we are NOT in the severe weather watch area. So, we've got that goin' for us. yeah!

snow shovel ya later, djb

2011-01-07T10:55:00.002-06:00

Here's the star on Jarrett's side of their gravestone on January 3, 2008 - would've been his 20th birthday.
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Friday, January 7, 2011 - There's something in that star on the gravestone that speaks to me. I can't look at it enough. It's so awesome!!!

Enough said, Donna. Thanks, djb

2011-01-03T15:01:00.002-06:00

I like this picture because the wind blew one of Jarrett's balloons perfectly in front of the gravestone. Happy Birthday, Jarrett!
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Monday, January 3, 2011 - It was pretty funny trying to take pictures of the balloons and the flowers with the wind whipping the balloons every which way. Plus, it was COLD out there.

At least, Jarrett was thoughtful enough to ask the weather angels to get rid of the snow for me. Thanks, J-man. Some years, I can't even get in the cemetery on Jarrett's birthday because it's too icy and scary on the roads.

I miss you, Jarrett. Thanks for stopping by earth for a few years to be my little special man. Love you forever, mom

2011-01-01T21:24:00.002-06:00

This is the first time Grandma and Grandpa Berg met Jarrett. It was May 1988 (Mother's Day). He was 5 months old.
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Saturday, January 1, 2010 - I like this picture. I've been scanning some Jarrett photos for his picture page that I'll put up on my Andrew-Jarrett website on January 3rd.

Hard to believe that he would have been 23 years old if he hadn't died. WOW! That's just very difficult to grasp. He was just a kid the last time I saw him. I guess he'll remain forever 15. God bless the saintly boys. later, djb

2010-12-31T15:01:00.002-06:00

Jarrett's 6th birthday party on New Year's Eve (12/31/1994). Felix has his hand on Jarrett's head, then there's Ben, Jake and Andrew with Jon's arm around his shoulder.
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Friday, December 21, 2010 - For many years, we had Jarrett's birthday party on New Year's Eve. With his real birthday being on January 3rd, he would have missed having a party because that was usually the day they went back to school.

It also let their parents go out and enjoy the evening while their kids were at our house going crazy, playing video games and having fun and eating a lot of junk food. Yum!!

Happy New Year's Eve Birthday Party Remembrance to Jarrett! miss you, mom

2010-12-29T07:57:00.002-06:00

You can see Andrew and Jarrett's candles in the midst of the frozen frosted foliage caused by the freezing fog!
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Wednesday, December 29, 2010 - These pictures are awesome! I'm kind of waiting to see if the sun will come out in a little bit so I can get some more panoramic photos with the brightness of the sun shining on the frosty branches.

I used BOTH cameras to take pictures - the ones from the Canon are the most detailed. By the time I finished, my fingers were frozen because it was only 10 degrees outside. Brrrrrrrrr

When I dragged the garbage can and recylables out to the road, I realized that this was a photo op from God. And I gladly accepted the opportunity presented to me.

snow ya later, djb

2010-12-24T13:43:00.002-06:00

Here's the snow on the slide at 10:35 a.m. this morning. Look out below!
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Here's the slide at 12:55 p.m. this afternoon. Suspended in space.
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Friday, Christmas Eve, December 24, 2010 - So, we're getting the snow that they said "might" come down today. It looks like about 2 - 3 inches or so. It makes me very nervous because I'm not sure how the roads are going to be driving into Aurora.

Bob had to work this morning....and he's not home yet. It's getting close to 2 p.m. Hopefully, a person will be able to drive in the snow...

HURRAY! Bob just got home and he said that although the roads are slushy and snowy, they are driveable. (is that a word?)

Okay, gotta go. Ho ho ho. djb

2010-12-21T16:55:00.003-06:00

Here's the foggy view in the back yard (near the boys' pond garden) looking toward Elburn at around 4:30 p.m.
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Tuesday, December 21, 2010 - Not only did we get 6 inches of snow, we now have FOG. oh boy....and not a good oh boy.

I just remember that I didn't put anything in here about the full moon, the lunar eclipse and the winter solstice, so I'm going to do that now.

Dec. 21, 2010 - 3:13 a.m. EST -- Full Cold Moon. On occasion, this moon was also called the Moon before Yule. December is also the month the winter cold fastens its grip. Sometimes this moon is referred to as the Full Long Nights Moon and the term "Long Night" Moon is a very appropriate name because the nights are now indeed long and the Moon is above the horizon a long time. This particular full moon makes its highest arc across the sky because it's diametrically opposite to the low Sun. In fact, the moment of the Winter Solstice comes just over 15 hours after this full moon, at 6:38 p.m. EST.

Last, but certainly not least, this will also be the night (that was earlier this morning - couldn't see it because of the snow and clouds) of a Total Lunar Eclipse. North Americans will have a ringside seat for this event (totality will last 73-minutes) and, depending on your location, will take place either during the middle of the night or during the predawn hours. Observers in Western Europe and western Africa will see the opening stages of the eclipse before the Moon sets; South Americans will see the Moon set either during the total phase or as the Moon emerges from the shadow. At mid-eclipse, the Moon will appear almost directly overhead for observers in southern California and Baja Mexico.

from www.space.com website

talk to you later, djb

2010-12-21T07:07:00.003-06:00

This is the view out the kitchen window at around 6:51 a.m. this morning. My three little Christmas trees, the boys candles and the Nativity scene at Bud and Rose's house.
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Tuesday, December 21, 2010 - In the close-up view of this photo, you can clearly see the Nativity scene. It is completely and totally awesome! I was stunned to realize that I could see it from so far away. And no, I'm not a stalker.

The nice thing about this weather system is that it is relatively warmer here. Way up in the 20's instead of the zeros.

snow ya later, djb

2010-12-20T19:22:00.002-06:00

Here's how the driveway looked at around 4:15 this afternoon.
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Monday, December 20, 2010 - It's that really fine, light snow that's been snowing all afternoon. I call it sneaky snow.

Bob said the tollway was very slow. He didn't have too many problems until he got down by Blackberry Inn and encountered icy conditions. Then, when he drove up the hill on Smith Road, he had some problems.

It only took him about an hour and 15 minutes to get home. Usually, it takes about 30 minutes. At least, everyone HAS TO go slow. The speeders are probably all having mental breakdowns. haha!

I'd better go watch the Chicago Bears play the Minnesota Vikings in the Ice Bowl. Brrrrrrrrrrrr ya later, djb

2010-12-13T07:27:00.002-06:00

This was the last picture I took of the winds blowing. It looks like the one on my blogger blog but it isn't!
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Monday, December 13, 2010 - If you look at the bird feeder on the right in this picture, the top is on the top side.

In my blogger blog, the top is upside down! oh yeah! How are the birdies supposed to eat that way??

It is SO cold everywhere. When I got up, it was 4 degrees. It's even going down below freezing in Florida tonight. Well, at least they don't have *snow* down there.....yet!!!

brrr ya later, djb

2010-12-10T15:36:00.002-06:00

Here's the driveway after I shoveled it but it didn't melt much because Howard's gigantic evergreen trees are shading the majority of it.
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Friday, December 10, 2010 - While we were down at Blackberry Inn last night, it started snowing. I'd say it snowed about 2 and a half inches. It was quite fierce for a while.

I went out and started shoveling right a noon and got done at 1:45 without stopping at all. If I had stopped, I would've died. I did take a few minute break at the end of the driveway to talk to our neighbor, Steve. He was right at the end of his driveway.

We lamented the fact that we were shoveling snow instead of mowing GRASS. haha Way easier.

In the next few days, we're supposed to be getting up to four inches of snow and 40 mile per hour winds. The fun never stops!!! snow ya later, djb

2010-12-09T07:41:00.002-06:00

This was the sunrise this morning at 6:58 a.m. It just lasted for a few minutes. Love the pinkish hues.
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Thursday, December 9, 2010 - Yesterday afternoon, I packed my car with the stuff I was planning to bring into the Goodwill store in Batavia [including some of Andrew and Jarrett's TMNT (teenage mutant ninja turtles)] and decided that I'd better make an appointment for today to get the pressure in my eye checked.

I had been feeling some minor, intermittent pain around my right eye. Wasn't exactly sure why?? That's why I go to see the ophthamologists, eh.

Well, when I mentioned the problem to the receptionist at Wheaton Eye Clinic, she said that I HAD TO come in now -- not tomorrow. Okay. And thankfully, Dr. Lee was there.

I just realized that I'm writing this on Andrew and Jarrett's blog when it should be on my blog. Okay, so the rest of the story will be written over on my blog. see ya later, djb

P.S. The reason put that picture on their blog is because it has their candles in it.

2010-12-06T06:46:00.002-06:00

Merry Christmas - Happy Frozen Toes and Nose and Everything else. Remember to bundle up!
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Monday, December 6, 2010 - Last night, when I was talking to Mother, I did the temperature check comparison that we always do. It was 11 degrees here at our house. Can't remember exactly what it was in Casselberry, but it was definitely warmer than here.

The above picture was taken this morning. Hey, I even have proof! At least, it wasn't 58 degrees in the house. For some reason, that extra degree seems a lot colder.

Supposed to get up to 22 degrees today. We went from fall to winter in one fell swoop. freeze ya later, djb

2010-12-03T09:16:00.003-06:00

Here's the big branch that fell off one of the evergreen trees. It's about 20 feet long so I couldn't get the whole thing in the picture.
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Here's the hose that has frozen water in it (hmmm would that be considered ice?). Once I get it thawed out, I'll be able to wrap it up tight and put it in the shed.
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Friday, December 3, 2010 - When I went to save big money at Menard's yesterday, I checked out their wreaths. UGLY, very flat and quite dry looking. Seriously, I can make one that will look 100% better for Zero dollars and Zero cents.

After seeing them, I realized that my dead branch looked better than what they were trying to sell. Embarrassing. And no one was buying them either. Their poinsettias looked sad. :(

Oh...I just reminded myself of one more thing I have to do. Get a fake poinsettia to put next to the Nativity set and Christmas tree. Last year, I got one at Walgreen's in Elburn. It was okay but I thought the price was a tad high.

Time to go do some stuff. sn*w ya later, djb

2010-12-01T15:27:00.002-06:00

Here's a look at the SNOW that we got this morning. WOW! And it's also very, very cold!!
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Wednesday, December 1, 2010 - Winter is here. This afternoon, I put away the last of my flower pots. No wait, there's one left out there. I have to dump it in the burn pile.

It is SO COLD. Sometimes, you just don't see things that are right there in front of your face. Like the hose. Early last week, I did unscrew it from the faucet but I didn't wrap it up because I was going to use it one. more. time. HAHA!!

Now, it's in the garage thawing out so I can re-wrap it and then put it in the shed with Juanita and the snow blower. BRRR

snow ya later, djb

2010-11-25T12:49:00.002-06:00

This morning, I took Tom Turkey into the cemetery so I could get a Thanksgiving picture in front of Andrew and Jarrett's gravestone.
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Thursday, November 25, 2010 - When I went into Elburn, I also stopped at the grocery store and lo and behold, I ran into Deborah, my neighbor. We had such a GREAT (and lengthy) chat. It seems as though I never see my neighbors here in the neighborhood but always seem to run into them someplace else. That is funny.

Hope everyone is enjoying their turkey and all the other STUFF. gobble ya later, djb

2010-11-23T09:46:00.002-06:00

I'm not sure what's going on in this picture but it certainly cracked me up - Diane and Andrew are hilarious!
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Tuesday, November 23, 2010 - Yesterday afternoon (at 3:30 p.m. CDT), I called Granny just after I heard the word "Elburn" on The Weather Channel. We chatted for a few minutes before all hell started breaking loose, and I had planned to call back to chat a while later in the evening.

Well, I did call but figured they were on the line because it kept ringing and no answering machine. Thought maybe they were talking to Ron about the tornadoes up by Rockford and vicinity.

I was wrong. Diane called me and said, "We're at our favorite hospital." My reply was, "Which one now?" She laughed and said, "I knew you were gonna say that."

It was Mother. The cellulitis in her right hand has somehow gotten into her left hand. It's not contagious so it is confusing as to what is actually happening. I haven't really studied it YET.

And since I've gotten out of the diagnostic business, I won't even hazard a guess. It could be..... No. Stop that, Donna!!

Cellulitis - Topic Overview

What is cellulitis?

Cellulitis is a skin infection caused by bacteria. Normally, your skin helps protect you from infection. But if you have a cut, sore, or INSECT BITE, bacteria can get into the skin and spread to deeper tissues. If it is not treated with antibiotics, the infection can spread to the blood or lymph nodes. This can be deadly.

Some people can get cellulitis without having a break in the skin. These include older adults and people who have diabetes or a weak immune system. These people are also more likely to develop dangerous problems from cellulitis. And they are more likely to get cellulitis again. or a weak

What causes cellulitis?

Cellulitis is caused by bacteria (usually strep or staph). Some people are at risk for infection by other types of bacteria. They include people with weak immune systems and those who handle fish, meat, poultry, or soil without using gloves.

What are the symptoms?

At first, the infected area will be warm, red, swollen, and tender. As the infection spreads, you may have a fever, chills, and swollen glands.

Cellulitis can occur anywhere on the body. In adults, it often occurs on the legs, face, or arms. In children, it is most common on the face or around the anus. An infection on the face could lead to a dangerous eye infection.

See a doctor right away if you have an infected area of skin and:

The infected area is getting redder, more painful, or larger, or it has red streaks extending from it.
You have a fever or chills.
The infected area is on your face or your groin.

How do you get cellulitis?

There are many ways to get cellulitis. You can get it if you have:

An injury to your skin, such as a cut, surgical wound, burn, or animal or insect bite.
Skin problems, such as ulcers, eczema, psoriasis or a fungal infection like athlete's foot.
Certain medical conditions. These include diabetes, peripheral arterial disease or a weak immune system.
Fluid buildup (edema) in the legs or arms.
Had liposuction to remove excess fat.
Injected illegal drugs under your skin.

How is it treated?

Doctors use antibiotics to treat cellulitis. If the infection is mild, you may be able to take antibiotic pills at home. If the infection is severe, you may need to be treated in the hospital with antibiotics that go right into your bloodstream.

If your doctor prescribes antibiotics, it is important to take them as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.

It is very important to get treatment right away for cellulitis. If it is not treated, the bacteria can spread quickly through the body and cause SEPSIS, an extreme response by the body’s defense system. This can be deadly. Cellulitis on the face can spread to the brain and cause a dangerous infection (meningitis). Cellulitis can also cause other serious problems, such as blood clots in the legs (thrombophlebitis).

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Okay, so after reading that, now I know a little more about cellulitis. YIKES!!!! So glad that Mother is in the hospital getting intravenous antibiotics. After I got my spleen out, they told me any time I got a high fever just go to the ER to be sure I didn't have sepsis. That's the real scary part of all this. I won't even post anything about sepsis. That word scares the hell out of me. It always has.

All right. Big sigh. It's time to change the batteries in my thermometers. AA, B and C ya later, djb

2010-11-12T08:26:00.004-06:00

This is the photo I took of the display on the phone in the kitchen on 11/11.
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Friday, November 12, 2010 - Yesterday, I was in the kitchen and looked at the phone and I saw 11/11 11:03 and then I realized that at 11:11, there would be FOUR elevens in a row. How could I pass up that photo op!

When I checked the information on the actual picture -- you know, when you see what date and time it was taken -- it says 11/11/2010 at 11:11 a.m. So that proves that it was NOT a staged event.

Although, I do suppose that some crazy person with a lot of time on their hands could actually do that. HAHAHA!!!

It is TIME to go get some more coffee. see ya later, djb

2010-11-07T08:52:00.002-06:00

This picture was taken with my Canon EOS Rebel XT. It is so crisp and clear. And so gorgeous!!
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Sunday, November 7, 2010 - I've been looking forward to this day (changing the time on the clocks and pretending that's normal) because now I'll be able to walk to the end of the driveway in the mornings in the light. After seeing that skunk last week, I'm still a little leery of what's out there.

Too bad Andrew and Jarrett aren't around any more -- in more ways than one!!!!! They could have helped me put the patio furniture away yesterday. It's so heavy. But, it is good exercise. Maybe I should move it around every day. haha

later, dj

2010-10-30T07:30:00.002-05:00

Here's Grandpa and Grandma's new patio enclosure. It looks exactly as Granny described it to me. Love it!!!
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Saturday, October 30, 2010 - Only 11 more months until my birthday. haha!!

Speaking of birthday celebrations... the Florida Berg kids are gathering at Bergs' house today to celebrate Grandma's birthday. Don't worry. Diane gave strict orders that Grandma is not to do ANYTHING.

Howard and Irene went to Epcot yesterday so they stayed overnight at Bergs' house instead driving home and then driving back. Good idea! Steve and Mary are already in Orlando because that's where they live so they just have to drive on 436 for a few miles.

When I called last night, it sounded like the party had already begun. There was hootin' and hollerin' and laughing and such carrying on. Wish I could've been there. It sounded fun.

But the fun continues today. If everything goes smoothly, then Diane will bring Biskit over to mingle with her people kinfolk. I've dubbed her the therapy dog because she makes everyone happy. Wait a minute. I need a Biskit. awwwww

Gotta go get my papers and some more coffee. It's finally light outside so I can see if there are any critters outside trying to scare me. One more week and we FALL BEHIND!! bye, djb

P.S. When it got down below freezing the other night, I had to bring my plants into the garage. Later that evening, I saw a freaking MOUSE scurrying under the tool bench. YUK!!! It's a good thing I don't live near Disney because I HATE MEECES TO PIECES.

2010-10-28T07:25:00.002-05:00

This picture is in the Beacon-News this morning. Check out the two ORBS above the silos!!!!!! -Brian Powers, Staff Photographer, Aurora Beacon-News
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Thursday, October 28, 2010 - This is way too easy!

As an amateur meteorologist, I'm always fascinated by extreme weather... but then I'm also equally interested in cosmic occurrences!

Here's the description from the Beacon-News:

Strong winds and gusts of 47 mph whipped across the cornfields along Francis Road Wednesday (10/27/10), making it difficult for landowners to begin cleaning up the mess left by a low-intensity tornado that crossed four farmsteads a day earlier.

NIU Meteorologist Gilbert Sebenste said the tornado formed in a cornfield east of Meredith Road and Route 38 near Elburn at about 6:55 a.m. Tuesday. He said the tornado tracked down Francis Road, curved around a couple of bends in the road, then turned north near Beith Road.

While there were sheaths of metal strewn in neatly harvested fields, the heaviest damage flattened two barns, toppled a metal grain bin and snapped a utility pole at the base on a Francis Road farm.

“The damage was consistent with a low-intensity F1 tornado,” Sebenste said. F1 tornados typically have wind speeds topping out at 100 to 110 mph.

The tornado caused structural damage to two farmhouses, destroyed an older barn and garage, pulled the vinyl off of a steel frame structure, destroyed a tool shed and pulled down a vinyl fence, Sebenste said.

“This was considered a fairly weak tornado, but it still produced significant damage,” he said.

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As I said before, further south from the farm in this photo on Francis Road is where Marcus died. He spoke at Andrew and Jarrett's funeral along with others. For some reason, he has a connection to the boys. It's my opinion that the brighter orb is from Marcus and the lighter orb is from Jarrett.

Call me crazy. Don't really care. It makes me happy and makes me smile -- especially since the sky is so blue and sunny and it's almost as if they're giving me the message: "Stuff's not important, love is. We're still around watching over you."

I love orbs. And Happy Birthday to Grandma!!! bye, djb

2010-10-26T20:17:00.003-05:00

Clouds south of Elburn at 7:46 a.m. Not sure when the tornado hit but the sirens went off in Elburn at around 7a.m.
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Tuesday, October 26, 2010 - It's official - we had a tornado in Elburn this morning.

This is from Tom's Facebook page:

Hey Tom: the NWS has confirmed it :) It was an EF 1 tornado here this morning less than 1 mile from me.......
PRELIMINARY LOCAL STORM REPORT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE CHICAGO/ROMEOVILLE IL
614 PM CDT TUE OCT 26 2010

Wow! That's weird to not find out all day that we had destruction and chaos not too far away. Oh my. later, djb

2010-10-26T17:35:00.004-05:00

This limb was caught in the crook of the elm tree and is stuck there.
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Tuesday, October 26, 2010 - Ron called me and said that he and Liz (the birthday girl) heard Tom Skilling talk about some damage in Elburn. Since I'm a friend of Tommy's facebook page, I checked it out. Here's the posting from Tom's Facebook:

Brad Hruza: Tom, we have quite a bit of damage in Elburn. Houses damaged, power's out and waiting to hear may have been a possible tornado touchdown here. I'm trying to get into the area. I'm a trained spotter.

Tom, I got in - it's a mess. Tree branches, poles, houses damaged. It is a mess. It's in Elburn just west of 47 is closed for a 2 mile stretch on Keslinger Rd. Just reported it to the NWS - 8 hours ago
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So, after I read his posting, I realized that it was right along Keslinger where you have to pass Andrew and Jarrett's crosses. It was probably just the boys playing with the angels. haha!!! later. stay safe out there, djb

2010-10-26T09:03:00.002-05:00

Here's the latest picture outside the computer room window. The carpet of leaves on the bottom extends across the entire yard. You can also see some of the sticks that have fallen.
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Tuesday, October 26, 2010 - We know why it's so windy around here today -- all of the politicians exhaled at the same time. hahaha!!! bye for now, djb

2010-10-26T08:52:00.002-05:00

This is the view across the street. Only a few pretty fallish looking trees.
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Tuesday, October 26, 2010 - It seems as though the severe thunderstorm fell apart before it got here. Other places got some damage from what I've been hearing but we just have the winds which are going to keep blowing for the next two days.

Oh that's funny. The leaves are being blown across the front yard -- looks like they're going over to our neighbor's yard. Yeah, keep going north, that's a good idea.

Better go take care of some business. Pretty soon it'll start snowing and then at least I can go out and shovel the driveway. When the leaves are wet, you can't do anything but look at them. All righty. see ya later, djb

2010-10-23T07:45:00.002-05:00

Here's Jarrett's pumpkin as of two days ago which would be Thursday (10/21). I wonder if any of those seeds on the ground will sprout next year?
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Saturday, October 23, 2010 - Happy Birthday to Alan!! That's Uncle Al, the kiddy's pal.

We're finally getting rain -- not much but at least it should help with the dust bowl that's out in the yard. The grass looks so brown and ugly. Earlier this year, we had LOTS of rain and the grass was very green.

Isn't that the way these things go..... bye for now, djb

2010-10-19T15:31:00.002-05:00

Jarrett's pumpkin has been a tasty treat for a hungry critter.
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You can see Jarrett's name in this picture...plus, you can also see his partially eaten pumpkin!
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Tuesday, October 19, 2010 - This afternoon, I went into the cemetery to get some pictures of the boys' pumpkins!! It is absolutely hilarious that some critter is eating them.

I'm going to put a close-up of Andrew's pumpkin on my blogger blog. see ya later, djb

2010-10-11T08:18:00.002-05:00

Here's Grandpa, Jarrett, not sure who's behind Andrew (looks like Kimberly) at Woodhaven quite a few years ago.
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Monday, October 11, 2010 - On Saturday, the air smelled exactly like Woodhaven (autumn leaves burning). It was marvelous!! I've read that it isn't necessarily the brain by itself that recalls everything but the brain coupled with the nose that smells the smells and triggers the memory of an event. WOW! That's true.

We always had such a good time at Woodhaven. It was like an alternate universe where people came to get away from it all and time stood still. Although it did seem as though some people brought it ALL with them...it was still an idyllic getaway place. They didn't have phone service for years.

There were rules and regulations relating to the size of the trailer (mobile or not so mobile home) and attachments but I was amazed and amused at the way people decorated the outside with lighted patios. They planted flowers -- mostly hosta because it was so shady. And everyone had a fire pit.

It was a sweet place. Plus, they had a couple of lakes, a large swimming pool, a nature center (interesting choice because they were located in the MIDDLE OF NATURE) and a small grocery store, a bank and a couple of other big community type center buildings.

It was pretty much self contained. Yeah, I know I'm forgetting some of the things. Whatever. The boys LOVED the fire pit -- whether it was putting more wood on the fire or cooking a hot dog or the best part: burning marshmallows!!!

Oh boy. Wonder how things are down there? hmmm Probably the same. Time to skedaddle. later, djb

2010-10-10T16:14:00.002-05:00

Jarrett, me and Andrew in our house in North Aurora probably 1988 or 1989 -- a rare photo, indeed!
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Sunday, 10-10-10 - Thought I'd better write in here today to remember the boys on 10-10-10. Since I've been using the new computer, I have NO idea where my pictures are located so I put that really OLD picture up there.

And besides not finding my photos....to annoy me even further, the space bar on the new key board doesn't like to move when I hit it. That causes a host of problems. You would not believe!

Andrew and Jarrett, wish you were here. Miss you always and forever. Love, Mom