Friday, December 31, 2010


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

Wednesday, December 29, 2010


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

Friday, December 24, 2010


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

Tuesday, December 21, 2010


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

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

Monday, December 20, 2010


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

Monday, December 13, 2010


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

Friday, December 10, 2010


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

Thursday, December 9, 2010


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.

Monday, December 6, 2010


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

Friday, December 3, 2010


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

Wednesday, December 1, 2010


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

Thursday, November 25, 2010


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

Tuesday, November 23, 2010


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

Friday, November 12, 2010


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

Sunday, November 7, 2010


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

Saturday, October 30, 2010


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.

Thursday, October 28, 2010


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

Tuesday, October 26, 2010


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

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

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

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

Saturday, October 23, 2010


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

Tuesday, October 19, 2010


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

Monday, October 11, 2010


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

Sunday, October 10, 2010


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

Sunday, October 3, 2010


Andrew and Jarrett dressed in their Bear fan sweatshirts about 20 years ago. Go Bears!
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Sunday, October 3, 2010 - Thought I'd put in the picture of the boys sitting on the swing out on the porch which now has green outdoor carpeting on it. Interesting....

I have nothing much to say. It's cold and I'll never be warm again. hahaah bye, djb

Wednesday, September 29, 2010


Here's Jeannette and Stephanie at Schmidt's on Monday night.
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Here's Brooke, Colleen and Jacqui also at Schmidt's on Monday night.
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Wednesday, September 29, 2010 - It's so WEIRD to write September 29 because it's so close to September 30th that it's almost scary in an exciting and anticipatory way....

On Monday night, we met Colleen, Steph, Jeannette, Jacqui, Brooke, Kevin, Kevin and Keith stopped by. Also JD. But we saw lots of other people that we knew. It was SO MUCH FUN!

It is amazing and energizing to meet with those wonderful kids. And I do say kids because I'm old enough to be their GRANDMOTHER. Their beer drinking granny. hahaa!!

Maybe that's why we get along so well with them. Or it could just be that they're awesome and we're extremely lucky to spend time in their orbit. And they do travel around like whirling dervishes....(obscure reference).

Better get going. Yesterday, I spent the ENTIRE day cleaning, organizing and tossing stuff out. We're getting the house appraised so we can appeal the real estate tax assessment -- which has been historically high and is now VERY HIGH.

Plus, the sealcoat people called me last night just before 5 and they're ALSO coming today to seal the driveway. Nothing happens for weeks on end....then, everything happens on the same day. Isn't that the way these things go? Answer: yes!

See ya later, djb

Monday, September 27, 2010


Here's Kylie dressed up for homecoming on Saturday night. Go Hubs!
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Monday, September 27, 2010 - Happy Birthday to my Grandma O'Malley. She was born in 1883 so she'd be really old if she were still alive. For some reason, I can remember Grandpa and Grandma's years of birth. Probably because I spent so much time researching their families.

I still have to laugh when I think about Kylie as a little kid. Whenever the girls would bring her over to our house, she'd burst through the door and ask excitedly, "WHERE's the boys?" Downstairs. Then, she'd scurry on down looking for those boys. Half the time, they'd hide behind the door and scare her. Yikes!!

After they died, the few times that she did come over, it was too difficult for her to go into the computer room. She was still spooked by their teasing. Even though I kept telling her that they weren't there. Yeah, she knew that but still......

Sweet boys, Andrew and Jarrett, please watch over Kylie. Thanks. love you both, Mom

Thursday, September 23, 2010


This is a full moon picture picture I took a couple of years ago. It only seems appropriate to put it in here today!
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Thursday, September 23, 2010 - It's the Full Harvest Moon. Also, the autumnal equinox. Remember that equinox means "equal nights." That's because the nights in both hemispheres are equal. It is does NOT mean that the length of day and night are equal. That would be called equidaynox.....

September. 23, 5:17 a.m. EDT -- Full Harvest Moon. Traditionally, this designation goes to the full moon that occurs closest to the Autumnal (fall) Equinox. The Harvest Moon usually comes in September, but (on average) once or twice a decade it will fall in early October. At the peak of the harvest, farmers can work into the night by the light of this moon. Usually the moon rises an average of 50 minutes later each night, but for the few nights around the Harvest Moon, the moon seems to rise at nearly the same time each night: just 25 to 30 minutes later across the U.S., and only 10 to 20 minutes later for much of Canada and Europe. Corn, pumpkins, squash, beans, and wild rice -- the chief Indian staples -- are now ready for gathering.

-from www.space.com/spacewatch/full-moon-names-2010-100127.html

I'd better get going -- I have to gather some wild rice. bye, djb

Tuesday, September 21, 2010


This is the very tall ash tree that's right near the burn pile that got singed by the fire.
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Tuesday, September 21, 2010 - Thought I'd write on the boys' blogger blog before I go out to mow. It'll probably be a little bit wet but we'll see what happens.

Last Friday, I think it was....I lit the burn pile on fire. Wish I had a picture of that. It was a HUGE, GIGANTIC conflagration that was close to be terrifying. yikes!!!

Thankfully, we had no wind so the only place the fire had to go was up about 40 or 50 feet to the leaves on top of that ash tree. I was afraid that the tree was going to catch on fire.

The interesting thing that happened was that it completely burned itself out and never did smolder very much. A few embers were burning later on and I doused them with water and that was that. The end.

see ya later, djb

Tuesday, September 7, 2010


Here's Jarrett gnawing away on his sweet corn...or do you say "corn on the cob?"
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Tuesday, September 7, 2010 - If I write on my blog, then I have to write on this one. It's a Libra thing.

We've always called it sweet corn and NOT corn on the cob in my family growing up. I think probably that's because Grandpa grew field corn and we de-tasseled seed corn so in our world, all corn was on the COB. And people ate the sweet corn.

As I was typing this, Diane called me, and after I talked to her, I got distracted by the wind. We're having serious gusts here today. So, I guess I'll go to Target and see what I can find.

see ya later, djb

Sunday, September 5, 2010


Here's Grandma and Grandpa Burkholder with Andrew and Jarrett back in the day. Can't remember the year exactly.
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Sunday, September 5, 2010 - Thought I'd write on the boys blogger blog on Grandpa Burkholder's 90th birthday. He's been gone since January 2002. That's the last time I had a spirit sit in the front seat of my car. Hey boys???? where are you?

It's hard to find the pictures I'm looking for because everything is scattered all over the place. Usually, I find a picture when I'm NOT looking for it.

This weekend reminds me of all the years we'd either go to Minnesota or Woodhaven. Lately, we've been hanging around here. Although, we'll be in DeKalb some time soon.

I'll take pictures even though certain people don't want me to do that. Dennis. Now that I think about it, I'm probably one of the few people in the world who actually has taken pictures of Bergy.

I deserve a medal for that. haha Okie dokie. gotta run. Happy Birthday, Grandpa Burkholder. later, djb

Sunday, August 29, 2010


Jarrett and Andrew are inspecting the damage (around 4 p.m.) that was done to the cherry tree on August 28, 1990.
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Sunday, August 29, 2010 - Yesterday was the 20th anniversary of the Plainfield Tornado. The storm system went right over our house before it went down to Will County and created unspeakable havoc. It was one of the scariest storms I've ever witnessed. And we did witness it in the very spot I'm sitting in right now.

Yeah, right in front of the window in the computer room. Jarrett was on my lap and Andrew was right beside me. It was unbelievable fury that was being unleashed before our eyes! The thing about it was that we usually get storms from the southwest -- but this one came from the northwest. weird!

We thank Johnson's Mound (a kame) for saving us from death and destruction... well, at least that day. Apparently, the boys were supposed to live for a few more years.

Bob didn't feel good so he had stayed home and didn't go to work. He was upstairs in bed. The boys and I were downstairs. Andrew was 4 and Jarrett was 2 so they weren't in school yet. And I'm REALLY thankful for that.

Here's the story from The Beacon News today (8/29/2010):

The Plainfield tornado, as it is generally known, was caused by a microburst, a powerful blast of air that descends rapidly and spreads in all directions.

T.T. Fujita, then a professor at the University of Chicago and one of the nation's leading tornado researchers, said at the time that the Will County tornado had winds of more than 260 mph. It traveled more than 16 miles on the ground and varied in width from one-quarter to one-half mile.

The twister had its origin in a storm front that first spawned a small tornado that touched down at 1:30 p.m. near Rockford. The storm blew through DeKalb County, then entered northern Kane County just before 3 p.m., flipping planes at the Aurora Municipal Airport (actually Sugar Grove). At about 3:30 p.m., the twister ripped into Will County.

The tornado first touched down in Will County in the Wheatland Plains subdivision where an estimated 50 houses were hit. Three fatalities were reported on Route 30 in north Plainfield.

The twister then demolished Plainfield High School, where three people were killed. It severely damaged St. Mary Immaculate Church and School in Plainfield, where the principal, Sister Mary Keenan, was found dead in the rubble with two other victims.

Much of an eight-block area between Willardshire Road and Caton Farm Road in Joliet was flattened. Nearly two-thirds of Grand Prairie Grade School was demolished. A half-dozen people died in subdivisions along Caton Farm Road.

The Crest Hill Lakes apartment complex in Crest Hill was hit hard: the 48-unit, three-story building was leveled. Eight people died.

The high winds tore down thousands of trees and power lines. Fires broke out in a number of buildings that were torn apart.

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Somewhere we have a picture of St. Mary Immaculate Church that Grandpa and Grandma Berg took when they came to visit shortly after the tornado hit. Can't really tell you where that is right now. It could be that I've never scanned it.

Remember in those days, we didn't yet have digital cameras. Oh yeah, the olden days. all righty. Stay safe out there. later, djb

Friday, August 27, 2010


On the upper left edge of this photo, you can see some sort of pinkish whitish "stuff" that is NOT supposed to be there, it's supposed to be black, not yukky. Those are the fingers of one of the girls that was sitting at the table on Sunday - the last day of Elburn Days.
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Friday, August 27, 2010 - Yesterday, I went in and tried to clean up Andrew and Jarrett's chess table at Lion's Park. I realize that it is outside, and it is located in a park but other than the defacement I found there on Sunday, the rest of the table is in pretty good shape.

I used Goof Off to get the goofy stuff off the black metal. I'm not sure if I'm going to repaint the black parts or exactly what I'm going to do. It does look a whole lot better than it did. Of course, there's nothing I can do to prevent any further shenanigans.

The plaques on either side of the table were looking kind of dingy, so I cleaned those off with Barkeeper's Friend -- and it does clean brass. Looks much better, also. I forgot to bring my old scrubby toothbrush, so it was a challenge trying to get it clean...but I did it.

Okay, gotta go now. see ya later, djb

Thursday, August 26, 2010


Here's Marcus with his famous Mohawk on March 3, 2005 when he visited the cemetery on the second anniversary of Andrew and Jarrett's accident.
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Thursday, August 26, 2010 - Ever since my computer was hacked in 2006, and I lost a bunch of pictures, including the ones from March 2005, I've searched for them in vain until an hour ago...I finally found Marcus.

When Marcus died on November 22, 2006, I began my search for this picture. Then I realized that it was gone....forever, so I thought. I wanted to include this and another photo I took that day in the page I made to honor his memory.

I'm absolutely ecstatic that I found it. It's been on a recovery disc all these years but the old computer refused to read it and gave me some stupid error messages. The new computer made a few weird noises and then, the pictures popped up.

God bless Marcus. He visited Andrew and Jarrett's grave quite a few times with others and also by himself so I was told. He felt a connection to their tragedy. And then, he joined them. It's very eerie and yet I'm comforted by the fact that they were there to welcome him.

Why did they all die so young? Why did my nephew, Chuck, die so young? It's all incomprehensible to me. I struggle to understand it and I have no answers....except for the thought that always intrudes -- "It was their time to go -- the time for them to unleash the bonds of their earthly existence."

God bless them all. later, djb

Tuesday, August 24, 2010


Here's Debbie's daughter, Taylor, sitting on the parachute ride with me on Sunday, August 22. 2010 - it was a miracle.
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Tuesday, August 24, 2010 - When I went into Lion's Park on Sunday, for the last day of Elburn Days, I thought for sure I'd see a lot of people I knew who had kids that wanted to go on the parachute ride with me. But I didn't.

After Bob finished working in the Beef Tent, we were getting ready to leave when he saw Debbie and her family. OMG!

Debbie used to work at Blackberry Inn about 20 years ago. We'd always bring the boys in to eat and they were oftentimes squirrelly and rambunctious! Then, one night when we went in, Debbie had brought in some coloring books and crayons to keep the boys busy and occupied with something other than mayhem and chaos. We never forgot that.

Flash forward twenty years....while we were talking to Debbie, Bob mentioned that I wanted to go on the parachute ride but I couldn't find anyone to go with me. Did any of them want to go??? Taylor raised her hand, "I'll go." OMG

We got on the one with the purple parachute and promptly went up to the TOP and waited while the curly headed guy loaded more people opposite us. Then, we went around and around and around and up and down. It was SO MUCH FUN.

As we came down to get off, he walked over and said, "You want to go again....I owe you one." (Referring to my patience the previous evening when I waited for 15 minutes, plus 15 minutes, plus forever).

My response: OH YES!!!! THANK YOU!!!

Taylor looked at me and asked, "Don't we need a ticket?"

"No, honey. This is a FREE RIDE because I was patient yesterday and it paid off today." oh boy!

What a great Elburn Days!!! And it was so good to see Debbie. later, djb

Friday, August 20, 2010


Andrew and some other guy walking down the golf course at Hughes Creek. He could hit that ball a mile.
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Friday, August 20, 2010 - I'm writing in both blogs because I'm a Libra and I crave balance!! Even though it usually eludes me.

There's a lot of chores to be done around the yard but I think I may have to go into Elburn and poke around the garage sales. Not to buy anything, just to check things out. Wait a minute... maybe I could bring some of my stuff and just leave it in there.

It's not too hot yet. This afternoon looks like it's going to be a scorcher. Wait a great pool summer we've had. And the weeds are taller than an elephant's eye. Why do they always grow so well? And what's the point of mosquitoes anyway?

Better go. I'm just yakking and saying nothing. later, djb

Wednesday, August 18, 2010


Here's Dr. Nick with his doggie. Unfortunately, I can't remember her name. That darn short term memory loss!
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Wednesday, August 18, 2010 - Yesterday, I made the decision -- after consulting with the doctor of computers (Nick) -- that it was time to get a new computer. He graciously offered to come with me to Best Buy.

I mentioned this on my website but let me reiterate. Nick was here when we got the other computer almost eight years ago. Jarrett helped Bob build it, they ordered it from Dell, then it was delivered in many LARGE boxes. As I recall, the boys had it up and running before Bob got home from work.

It only seemed appropriate that Nick help me get a new one. We were pretty certain that Jarrett would approve. In fact, he did give me a sign. Instead of 333, he gave 332.74. yeah....

It's been really fun getting it up and ready to use. Nick downloaded the andrew-jarrett.com website from Yahoo and I already published to the internet twice yesterday.

We still have to move all the pictures over but I first want to delete a LOT of them. There are so many blurry, duplicate and dumb photos on there. That's my next project.

Although, I do see the sun coming out. hmmmm Look! Shiny object. Okay, gotta go. bye, djb

Saturday, July 31, 2010


Scariest picture of the day -- can you see those orangey-colored leaves on that tree in Gene's yard across the street from our house??? OMG
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Saturday, July 31, 2010 - Every year since I can remember (and we've been here for 20 years), that tree across the street is the first one to get fall-colored leaves.

It usually is full-blown orange during August. Wait a minute! August is tomorrow! It's a day early. Must be that darn global warming again causing chaos and disruption.

Interesting note to no one in particular: I sent my FIRST text message today all by myself. Wasn't sure exactly what I was doing but apparently, I have to receive one before I can send one, otherwise, I have no idea what I'm doing. And it worked! Hooray!!!!

I'm ALMOST a junior-senior techie. The next thing you know, I'll be getting an iPod touch. Those are very cool. Or maybe I'll get a new a computer that's NOT 8 years old. haha It's slow but it still works. What am I in a hurry for anyway?

That reminds me..... My Andrew-Jarrett.com website is having some serious publishing issues so that's why I'm writing on here instead of on there. It's supposed to publish to the server only the changes (which takes a few minutes) however, it's sick and confused and takes 6 hours instead to publish the ENTIRE website which is 17,206KB -- therein lies my problem.

However, I will be getting some pages together for Gladys and Gale's 90th birthday which are located on the boys' website - that's coming up on August 17th. Happy Boofday to the Twins. lalalalalala

All righty --- gotta go. My eye needs a break. bye, djb

Tuesday, July 27, 2010


Here's Jarrett's class photo from 4th grade - 1997-98. Ryan's photo is the last one. Now, they're all 22 years old (mas o menos). Life goes on...
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Tuesday, July 27, 2010 - Imagine my complete and utter delighted surprise to see a posting on the Guestbook for my Andrew and Jarrett dot com website from Ryan Well!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Wow, that really means a lot to me.

We always wondered why we didn't hear from Ryan after Jarrett died. They spent a lot of time together over the years -- I always remember the infamous December 31, 1999 birthday party for Jarrett (right before Y2K). oh yeah!

It seems to me that even though someone isn't here on the planet physically, it doesn't minimize the ripple effect of that person's influence on the life of a close friend -- years later. The memories, the fun times, the shared experiences....

Wow, thanks for that, Ryan. You totally made my day. With love and hugs, Jarrett's Mom ;)

Monday, July 12, 2010


These are the darker pink stargazers in the middle flower bed, along with the white freckle-faced stargazers. I do believe they have cross-pollinated and become a hybrid....
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Monday, July 12, 2010 -
After seeing these pictures, I realize that there has been a change in these flowers over the years. It seems that when I planted them, I had MORE of the darker pink stargazers than the white ones. Something's not right here.

They are truly gorgeous in person. It reminds me of the poster someone made for Andrew and Jarrett's funeral -- "They landed Among the Stars."

See ya later, djb

Thursday, July 1, 2010


Here's the plain stargazer lily. I'm always surprised when I see them come out instead of the pink, flashy ones. But these are the ones with the unbelievable aroma. It's awesome.
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The white/yellow stargazer plants are over 6 feet tall. They are just unbelievable!! I do absolutely nothing to these flowers and they grow like crazy. Go figure!
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Thursday, July 1, 2010 - Okay, here's the pictures of the other stargazer. The only reason I know they're stargazers is because they were in the same bag with the pink ones. When I first planted them many, many years ago, they were regular size and kind of interesting.

NOW.....they're crazy huge. Excuse me for waxing poetic but I love these guys. They're striking and impressive for only a few weeks or so and then they'll be gone. So, I enjoy them tremendously while they're here.

later gator, djb

Wednesday, June 23, 2010


Here's Andrew and Jarrett's trees the other day. You can see their gravestone in the background right between them. That's cool.
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Wednesday, June 23, 2010 - Right now (8:21 a.m.), we're in the midst of a severe weather outbreak. We're supposed to have storms this morning -- then after they pass through, the temperature is going to rise up into the 90's -- and that will result in MORE severe weather later today. Oh boy! Can't wait for that.

As I was taking the garbage out this morning, I encountered a FROG in the garage. Anyone who knows me very well, knows how I feel about frogs -- they're just one step above mice on my phobia scale. haha BUT, this time, I just told him to get out the way, I've got work to do.

After I took the garbage out to the street, I left all the doors open in the garage, so he could go back to nature. He might have come in when I brought my flowering baskets into the garage last night so they could escape the wind and heavy downpours that were predicted. Oh, those didn't happen did they. This weather is bizarre. It actually feels like Florida these past few days.

I'd better go check the western horizon and see what's going on out there. See ya later, djb

Saturday, June 19, 2010


Here's another view of the dark and scary western sky - Friday, June 18, 2010 at 3:27 p.m.
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Saturday, June 19, 2010 - I'm not sure if my camera actually has captured how dark and ominous this really looked. It was so creepy and foreboding. You just knew that nothing good could come out of this situation. At least, we didn't have any trees ripped out of the ground.

After the storm passed through, it kind of cleared up for a while BUT there was another system out in Iowa that came in at around 10 p.m. last night. That one was more rainy with lightning and thunder than the previous hurricane-force windy storm.

I'm not sure why we keep having these storms that are almost training across the upper part of the country but it can stop now. Down south, they NEED the rain and we NEED the sun. Let's switch this out for a few months. Hot and dry sounds good to all of us. However, we're supposed to have more storms tomorrow night and Monday and Tuesday....yikes!!!!

It's funny because everyone says that it's just like last summer except that it's warmer. We froze last year.... So, maybe next summer, it'll be hot and dry and we can actually swim in our pool every day. That would be sweet.

Must go pick up sticks. That'll be too much fun. later, djb