Fa La La La La!

Maren is a girl of many talents . . .

 

 

Sing it Mare! 

 

First piano recital - she played "Up on the rooftop".  She actually didn't play it - she rocked it!   Hooray Mare!

Photo Op

Official Christmas card season - here's our attempt!  Happy Holidays

2012 Wrap-up

Saving quite a few stamps . . .

We’re certainly glad to close the door on this year.  There are a few weeks that we’d like to erase completely, a patch that we don’t even remember, and some we’d like to declare a “do over”.  We aren’t skinnier, wealthier, fitter or more beautiful at the end of this year, but we’ve weathered many storms together, so I suppose we are “richer” for those experiences.

It became obvious at the first of the year, that Advanced Waste Automation was not going to be a long term option.  We were a dealership and service center for a company that was sold.  The new company (Labrie), had an existing service and sales relationship in Oregon that they chose to continue instead of including AWA.  Scott’s customers were beyond disappointed and we were devastated (irate, miffed and betrayed), but we were powerless in the situation.  

“Knock Knock”, another door opened.  In April, we bought Buck’s Sanitary Service—a business we previously owned.  Summer is the busiest season for Buck’s and we went from a mellow, halfway predictable life to chaos.  Add a 2 hour commute each day and there wasn’t much time for sleeping or laundry.  We were in a primal existence mode for most of the summer and are finally able to catch our breath and dust some cobwebs (who am I kidding?).  Sten was terrific help, and the girls did their part, holding the outhouse doors open or restocking toilet paper and soap. Strange that none of these people can change an empty roll of toilet paper at home, but they have no problem changing hundreds of rolls for Bucks! Huh?!

Sten is a senior in High School.  Not a fan of academics, Sten has been resistant to higher education.  However, he is entertaining the idea of College, possibly an agri-business degree through Oregon State at their LaGrande campus. His passion is farming.  He excels at mechanics, welding, and an industrial common sense.  He increased his hay production by 150% this year.  After spotting a John Deere cutter (mower) discarded next to a barn this Spring, he tracked down the owners who were uncertain of its mechanical status.  Sten purchased it dirt cheap, fixed the minor issues and it has been an incredible addition to his hay operation. 

Milah entered Junior High this year and is thriving.  She loves the options and the freedom, the challenges and the larger choice of friends.  Milah is a dedicated student and is intent on maintaining a 4.0, which she has achieved.  She checks her grades multiple times/week to make certain that she is on track.  She continues to be a soccer fanatic and participated on a few teams this year, typically playing in the forward or midfield position.  She desperately wishes for a growth spurt and complains about the “short” genes she’s been dealt.  Milah is the quietest one of the bunch.  She is helpful, sensitive, organized, responsible, and conscientious.   

 

Maren is in the 4th grade and isn’t inhibited by a single thing.  She throws her soul into whatever she’s doing and she loves to be with people.  She’s a multi—talented creature.  She’s a competitive soccer player and has recently taken up piano and gymnastics.  She is going to wear out the edge of our coffee table as she uses it for her constant “beam” routines.  Reading is her favorite school subject and she is known for her “off the wall” comments and insights.  A teacher recently stated, “You never know just what Maren is going to say”.  Uh Huh!  Entertaining for others, at times a cringe factor for the parents.
 

I found myself working nearly full time at Bucks this spring/summer—answering phones, selling toilets, and interjecting my creative 2 cents whenever I could:)  Scott and I work well together—I never once slammed a door or threw a shoe at him.  Ok, I wanted to (sure it crossed his mind too).  Our working relationship works best when we stay out of the other’s area of expertise.  I don’t tell him what to do with the employees/equipment (except when he’s wrong) and he doesn’t tell me what to do with company branding/design. 

Scott has worked physically harder than he has in years, and he’s wished his body was a bit younger. As the owner/operator, the loose ends and extra work get thrown in his basket.  He is the CEO, the mechanic, the public relations persona, the human resources department, and the grunt.   It’s impossible to close the door at 5pm and hope everything gets accomplished—this business is extremely competitive and if we don’t meet expectations, the customer has other options.   Our goal is to hire a few more employees so Scott doesn’t have to work as much, but it’s difficult to find the right people for the job.

This summer, Heidi and crew came to the States for a month.  The cousins were together everyday and it was hard to see them go.  In the past, intense fights have broke out, complete with hair pulling and lots of tears—but they were a rambunctious, loud, hungry, loving group this time.  Puts a little ache in your heart that there are so many miles and an ocean between us. 

Scott’s Grandma Patty (Leslie’s mom) passed away in October.  We will miss her pleasant, cheerful spirit, but know that she has gone onto her reward. 

As always, we look forward to hearing from each of you.  Happy Holidays . . . until we meet again. 

 

Weirdo

Maybe you're a weirdo like me.  Maybe not. 

Yesterday I finally spotted the end of a rainbow on the road just ahead.  I checked several times, expecting a pot of gold.  What?  No pot, no gold, nada. I was bummed.  Sorry to blow it for you.

Once again - in the car.  I battled to get a fly out for several miles.  15 miles from home - it finally escaped.  At which point, I was overcome with guilt.  I had broken up a fly family and they will never be reunited.  W-E-I-R-D-O

Hooray for 24 hour service (NOT!).  We forward the Buck's phones to Scott's cell phone when we leave for the night.  I'm not certain why some folks choose 3 am to chat about their toilet service, but it is not conducive to a full night's rest.  Do they really expect to pay their bill in the wee hours of the morning or is a broken toilet seat an emergency that needs to be discussed at 2am??  For pete's sake people, have you not heard of 8 in the morning??!! 

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

Crazy Week

 

RETRO DAY! She doesn't look too peace loving - looks like she could take a chunk out of your leg if you let her get too close. 

Ding Dong Ditched!

Ok, so they have zilch nutricious value and supposedly can survive a decade due to their unhealthy chemical components, but our road trips will never be the same.  It is tradition.  Stop at the same store - grab a bag of donuts and a quart of milk a few miles from the house.

Frozen ding dongs in their little foil wrappers?  Hard to beat.  Hostess products were an iconic sack lunch snack in my grade school years. 

I ran to the corner store with anticipation today - expecting the Hostess section to be wiped out . . .  and it was . . . after I left.  We all took one last "drag" on their whipped fillings and chocolatey shells.  So long Twinkies - we'll see you in your "next" life.

Psychology 101

At a recent stop at the Goodwill, I discovered they had lowered the price of every book to $.49.  2 books for a buck - no way!  I spent a few minutes hours in the stacks and grabbed some that intrigued me.  I'm not an avid reader, but I like to have books on hand for the very occasional quiet evening or boring wait in the car.  I spotted this book in a retail store earlier and it caught my eye.  Ok, it was probably just the red/white cover, but I couldn't resist when the price was only 49cents. 



A great concept - instead of being miserable that you don't excel in certain areas - use your strengths or natural talents to succeed.  A key part of this book is an online test that the reader takes to identify their strengths.  There is a one-time code that accesses the test and my bargain book's code had already been used.  However I found a similar test here.  Interesting results.

Milah and I are similar in strengths, with our greatest weakness being salesmanship (big surprise).  Maren's top strength was salesmanship (go figure) and it was close to the top of Sten's list as well. Scott has blown off the exercise entirely - sure that's gotta mean something.  Try it out - it's kind-a fun.

While you're at it - take the Jung Personality test too - you will be shocked at how "right on" the descriptions are.

Milah is a duty fulfiller: capable, logical, reasonable and an effective individual with a deeply driven desire to promote security and peaceful living.  Maren is an inspirer: charming, ingenuous, risktaking, sensitive, people oriented individual with capabilities ranging a broad spectrum.  Sten is the doer: practical, observant, fun loving, spontaneous risk taker with an excellent ability to quickly improvise an innovative solution to a problem.  Scott is a mechanic and I am an idealist.  All these misfits under one roof.  I think they call that a "family". 

Straight Jacket Sunday

I'm not fond of mice.  We've covered that already. 

Yesterday, we rode in Katrina (the ghost riddled Mercedes wagon) to Milah's soccer game.  Upon exiting the vehicle - Scott spotted a small mouse on the passenger floorboard.  He quickly escorted it from the car, while I shivered and screached.

On the way home, I heard a small squeak - glanced at my feet and spotted another mouse.  The screaming escaped my terrified lips and somehow I levitated my person so I was nearly parallel with the ceiling - demanding the car be stopped immediately.  Unreasonable reaction?  Uhhh, I don't think so.

This afternoon, we spotted another mouse - this time on the driver's side. 

Three meeces?  I'm so over that car. 

I'm gonna fill it with traps and poison cuz if one of those little creatures drops on my foot while I'm driving, there will be carnage on the freeway. 

Sten has fittingly renamed the car - the "Mousedes". It's going cheap folks, any takers?  

Say Cheese!

If I'm not mistaken, these look like senior pictures.  How can that be?  Sten was not too eager to do a photo shoot, but he smiled real perty, don'tcha think?  We plan to take some on the farm, but are waiting for better weather.  Now a shout out to the guy behind the lens . . . check out his blog.  Thanks Larry!  Love you Stennie Winnie Boo Boo

Critter Patrol

 A recent special visitor noticed some gopher holes in our yard.  He got busy trying to catch the critters and did not come up empty handed - what a prize!

Checking traps with his assistant

Clean Up in Corvallis

 Our school district has gone to a 4 day school week this year -  which means Fridays off! Today, our plan was to meet up with the Bucks crew as they prepped toilets for the OSU game tomorrow.  We arrived in town a little early and spotted Benny Beaver walking down the street.

 

Clean and freshly stocked with TP, thanks to Milah

 

 

 

Go BEAVERS!

It's a no go . . .

She's not known for her beauty - but this has been a good rig. 

Luxury? no 
Status car? definitely not
Running? errr, no

The reliable green bean (otherwise named the mommy missile by Sten's friends), came to a stall the other night.

This Escort wagon is was a rocket ship. She's been with me for two personal visits with the sheriff (thanks for the tickets, officer) and has gone many miles this summer.  For all her faults (no electric windows/door locks or cruise control) - she has an enormous plus.  You can pull away from the gas pump with a smile on your face instead of tears streaming down your cheeks. 

So for now - I'm back to Katrina. 
Hello status car
Hello luxury
Hello cruise control
Hello tears at the gas pump. 

Scott has threatened to get a Prius - but then I'd have to get an Obama bumper sticker and I just can't make that leap.

Fabric Hoarder?

 

How does one quick trip to the fabric store for some elastic end with this?  So the fabric store was closing and they were offering discounts on everything.  Ummm, I couldn't escape. Notice there is no elastic - it was sold out.

 

 It doesn't help that I recently discovered this site and couldn't get these skirts out of my head.  Apparently they sell this adorable clothing at home parties where they feature trunk shows.  I'd love to attend one, but probably better stay clear. 

How 'bout a few of us get together and try to whip up our own versions.  I have some fabric!

A Creative Streak

 

Sumpin's Gotta Give!  It's a popular phrase that we shout in this house (since Scott uttered it in the middle of a kidney stone attack one night).  This summer, in the chaos that was our lives - the house and the yard obviously suffered.  Barely keeping up on laundry and eating at 11:30 pm were all we could muster.  Decorating was at the bottom of the heap.  As we learn a new "normal", I feel my creative self emerging from hibernation . . .    

 

I was sick of looking at the same old things and hadn't completely removed the seasonal items since the "storm" hit.  Easter Bunnies look cute in April - but horribly out of place in October.  A little inspiration struck . . .

 

 

 

It struck at TJ Maxx Home Goods.  If you can't get inspired there - Honey, you ain't gonna!  I had 2 hours to kill before my invoices were done at the print shop.  Two hours in TJ Maxx - no problemo, amigo!  I tried to talk myself out of those large gears, but I just wasn't persuasive enough.  Once home, I did a little "shopping" in each room to complete my masculine mantlescape.  

 

 

One of my favorite treasures is the red metal box that formerly contained a saw.  I swiped the Ford hubcap out of Sten's room and I love old Boraxo tins because they remind me of Uncle Stan.

 

It's my Tribute to the workin' man . . .  you know the kind.  We have a couple that hang around here.  They're kinda lovable but they ain't the cleanest bunch.

Take a whiff - I bet you can smell grease mixed with a hint of B.O. 
  

Grandma Patty

Grandma Patty is failing rapidly. We often marvel at the vast changes in a newborn within the first months of life - but it seems that the elderly are on the same accelerated schedule - just in reverse. In a few short weeks, she has turned into an old lady, still sweet as ever - but an old old lady.

I picture a long road (90 + years worth), and I can see her in the distance. As she nears the destination, she is barely shuffling, and is carrying a small bag. Behind her on the path, you can see her footsteps (she leaves long narrow footprints).  You can see where she has gone out of her way to help another, and you can see the treasures that she has set aside along her journey. Her parents, sister, and dear husband have passed away, the big house has been sold, she's said her final goodbyes to many friends and her beloved California. Her driver's license has expired, the small house has been emptied, the well used mixing bowls and measuring spoons are in someone else's cupboard, and her mind is oftimes fuzzy.

She hears a voice - very faint at first. It is a familiar tone and it seems to be whispering "come home". She continues, taking one feeble step at a time, and the welcoming voice grows a bit stronger. She sees familiar faces gathered round. Although it is too much to talk, she can feel their love. The calling grows gently louder and she understands that what she is leaving behind, although precious to her, is insignificant. She recognizes the insistent voice as an old friend, one whom she can't wait to meet. Her body takes a last labored breath. She releases the small bag, letting it slip to the side of the road and with joy steps into eternity.

I love you Grandma Patty. I'm thankful that our paths crossed 23 years ago.

Grandma Patty passed away peacefully on September 20, 2012. 

Remembering . . .

Regardless of political affiliation or questions about the future of this country, we can all relate. We are all Americans

I find that I am choking back tears every year on this day. Twas an overwhelmingly sad sad sad one . . .

Grrrrr.

I'm peeved. One of my favorite things to do when I fired up the internet was do me some blog surfing. I am disgusted that commercialism has ruined blogging. In an attempt to make a buck, these amazingly creative women clog their blog with so many ads that it takes forever for them to load and there are even annoying popups! I certainly don't begrudge them success, but can't we just look at the perfectly staged photos and the before & afters without being pestered to purchase dog sweaters and video games?

A little less lip . . .

I have a weakness for all things pewter and recently scored a pair of these chalices at the Goodwill for 2$!

When you handle one of these goblets, you are immediately transformed into a medieval queen. One with a beautiful flowing dress - complete with jeweled crown, servants at your command, and most importantly - a knight in shining armor.

In order to have a chilled drink - I stored one of these vessels in the freezer. Perfect. Except for the little princess that spied the cold cup and pressed her lips to it's frozen edge . . .

Thus you see the remnants of her fleshy tongue. OUCH! Guess we will just chill them, not freeze them! Sorry Mare Mare!

Cousin Time

The crew of kids. Exhausted after a full day at Evergreen Wings & Waves. They had to kick us out at 8:00 and our kids were busting up the stairs for one last ride.

Love this pic! Liam loves pickups - a big bonus if it has huge tires and a loud engine.

Milah & Alinya

What good are photos without a few faces? No, their faces did not freeze like this

Once upon a time, I encouraged my only sibling to head to Switzerland for a great adventure. Oh by the way, I said - I think that Ralph guy is worth getting to know. What? She listened? I certainly don't regret her decisions because I adore Ralph and know that she is happy with her life. BUT . . . why does it have to be so far? Boo Hoo.

Introducing the QUACK SHACK!

I grew up a proud Beaver Fan. Still am.

HOWEVER, Buck's is in Duck Country. Thus, our new toilet - the QUACK SHACK. We want to make an Oregon State toilet as well but will see how these go first. Gladly accepting ideas - hint hint.

I love the design, but it feels like I've sold my soul. Go BEAVERS!

Jamboree Madness

The Oregon Jamboree (a country music festival) is this weekend and we have around 400 pieces at the event and scattered throughout 20 campground areas. We have been servicing the venue after the crowds leave in the evening - finishing around 2:30 in the morning. Hannes and Milah have been helping with this service - they are a huge help and seem to love it.

"Mean Uncle Scott" as Hannes used to call him - showing Hannes how to service the sinks.

Cousin togetherness - hey we'll take what we can get!

The crew in action. Sten and Scott pump. The rest of us fill in as door holders, tp, IHS, soap, and paper towel refillers - wipers and swipers as well.

After we finish servicing the event toilets, we have been making a trip to Eugene to empty the trucks. By the time we get back to town, Scott gets 1-2 hrs of sleep before beginning to pump all the campsites. It's a crazy schedule - good thing it's only 3 days!

Fleet Decor

Everyone loves before and after photos - even if it's on a poop truck! Please excuse the order of these pics - they are after, before, after

We recently purchased 2 used trucks from Florida. We had to cover the previous owner's graphics, so we decided to make a "splash" while we were at it.

It's so different - it's going to take some getting used to - but we like it. It's definitely eye-catching.

Wave, holler and honk when you pass us!

Hay! It's that time of year

Hay Boy is at it again. He is dressing the part with his Amish-ish facial hair. Last year, he finished with just over 6,000 bales - this year he's going to be right at 15,000!

This pick-up machine works awesome! It traps the bale and sends it up the chute. Looks like its from the horse drawn era, but it works! Best part - there's very little to break down (unlike the rest of this surly and cantankerous hay equipment)