Life in Oklahoma

Perhaps I should have titled this post, Life at the Broome's instead of Life in Oklahoma. But, their life is the life of many folks that live in Oklahoma, so it works.  
We went to see our daughter and her family last week because our 10 year old Grandson was competing in their county sheep show.  We had never seen him show.  Tommy's sister and her husband heard us talking about going a couple of months ago and decided that they wanted to go as well.  They had never been to Oklahoma and they were intrigued by Clancy and his sheep too.  So, they flew  and met us there for 4 days.

While Bridget and the boys were at school and Clint was at work we went to see some of the sights of OKC.  Our first stop was the Oklahoma City Memorial and Museum.  The bombing took place in 1995 and took the lives of 169 people.  There are 169 chairs beautifully placed at the outside memorial.

The museum was lovely and done in such a thoughtful manner.  It is every bit as lovely as the 911 Memorial in New York except on a MUCH smaller scale.  We thoroughly enjoyed going through it.

The next day we went to the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum.  It chronicles the life of the American Indian, the cowboy and western heritage.  It houses beautiful artwork, lovely displays and a fabulous museum store with beautiful items.  If you are ever in OKC, this should be on your "to do" list for sure.  

After a fun day in the city it was time to head back to the country and watch Clancy work his sheep as he finished preparing them for the sheep show.  We got lawn chairs and lined up on the sidewalk in their front yard.  Thankfully it was a pretty evening and the temps were bearable to be outside for a while. 

The evening before they and by they, I mean Clancy and both his Dad and Mom, had washed and sheared one of the four sheep in preparation for the show.  Once they are washed and sheared they have a tight covering they place over them (upper left hand picture) to keep them clean until the show. You may be wondering why the sheep have to be sheared and I did too. It is so the judges can see their build better.  Personally, I think they look naked sheared and are much more attractive with their wool.   Clancy is practicing his stance with the sheep in the above pictures.  It is a most uncomfortable looking stance but it is the proper way to show the sheep.  Clancy has a Shropshire, Hampshire, Southdown and Natural sheep.  I had no idea that there were different breeds of sheep until now.  I mean, I thought a sheep was just a sheep. ~laugh~  Guess they aren't all created equal. 

Coleman had plenty of outside entertainment while Clancy worked his sheep. 

And, the horses grazed peacefully and  enjoyed their dinner out in the pastures.

On Friday night all those showing in the show on Saturday went to the "barn" to start or finish prepping their animals for the show.  It was so very interesting to watch them.  Talk about work!  These kids and their parents put in a whole lot of work to prepare these animals for these shows.  

Clancy still had 3 sheep to wash, dry and shear.  They have the strongest blow dryers and it still takes a long time to get their wool dry so they can be sheared.  As I said earlier, they are soooo much more attractive with their wool but it has to be shaved off for the shows.  Poppa even got in on the action and helped with blow drying one of them.  We were thoroughly entertained and watched in utter amazement. And, to see Bridget doing this like she's been doing it all of her life is so funny.  This girl was born and raised a "city slicker."  She hardly knew what a farm animal was when she got married.  But, she has sure embraced the country life and handles it like a champ. 

Clancy and his Daddy were at the show barn by 6:00 AM last Saturday putting the finishing touches on the sheep.  The rest of us were there by 9:00 to watch the competition.  Coleman has a little "girlfriend" Laurel that he runs with at the competitions.  The folks there refer to them as "the barn babies."  As you can see in the above pictures, we were bundled up.  They "say" the show barn is heated but it's the most pitiful form of heat that I've ever known .  It was probably about 42 degrees in there and we sat there for 4 hours.  My feet were frozen to the core!

Clancy did really well wining a 1st place ribbon with one of his sheep and 3 2nd place ribbons with the other 3.  We wouldn't trade being there for anything as it was such a great experience and we now know what all goes into showing animals.  And, we are quite proud of Clancy and his hard work and dedication as a mere 10 year old. 

Wednesday Medley - National Love Your Pet Day

It's Wednesday and that means that Terrie has the questions and we have the answers.  Who knew that there was a National Love Your Pet Day?  I'm pretty sure if we checked that there would be a day for EVERYTHING and I'm betting that Hallmark probably has a card for each one.  Anyone betting it's a money making proposition for all concerned in designating these days?  I am for sure!

1.  Have you ever had a special pet in your life?  Will you tell us about it?

I am not a big fan of pets, but during our almost 48 years of marriage we have had a few. Our latest were Rhett (left) and Roscoe (right). A yellow and chocolate lab and they sort of ended up at our house as strays.  They were  and still are good dogs.  When we moved they did not move with us.  The folks that bought our old house was more than glad to keep them and loves them and takes very good care of them.  Hubby goes over weekly to see them.  We simply did not have room for them in our new yard and they were getting so old and needed to stay put.  It has worked out very well for us and for them.

2.  Did you grow up with pets in your home?  What did it teach you?


No, we never had pets inside our house.  I only remember us having one dog when I was growing up and it was a black Cocker Spaniel named Baby.  He was dearly loved by my oldest brother and he was pretty much his dog.  We lived on a busy highway and he was killed when he was very young and I well remember how grieved my brother was for a very long time.  We never had another pet until all of us had left the house and then my parents got a dachshund and he was an inside dog.  Not sure what made them decide to do that but they sure did enjoy him. 

3.  Do you ever wonder what animals are thinking?
Not really but they likely think that we humans are an odd breed for sure.  But, even though I'm not a big fan of pets, I'm not sure you could ever find a human as glad to see you or as forgiving. 

4.  Sometimes a pet gets out and doesn't return for a few days. What do you think happens to them when they go on a walkabout?
Well, perhaps they are like some kids that can't wait to leave home and then they realize how good they had it and suddenly return. 

5.  With cats and dogs being the most popular pets, what is the most exotic pet you have personal experience with (didn't have to be yours)?

I know, a hamster is NOT an exotic animal, but they might as well be as far as I'm concerned.  Our daughter begged for a hamster when she was young and we broke down and allowed her to have one.  I'm not sure how, but that crazy thing would get out of his cage and then we could not find him.  It almost did me in and I was a most happy Momma when he finally went on to meet his maker.  He was nothing but trouble but I suppose he brought some type of pleasure to our daughter "back in the day." ~smile~ 

6.  Please tell us something random about your week so far...

Most of you know that we went to Oklahoma last week to see this little guy show his sheep.  I can hardly wait to share all the details of our trip, it was quite a learning experience for us and we were sure proud of all of Clancy's hard work and dedication. Stay tuned!

The Latest

Several fun happenings in the past month or so that I wanted to share with you.......

Our Oklahoma family had a good snow back in January, enough that they missed a day of school.  Clancy and Coleman donned their warmest clothes and headed out to have fun before it all melted. They are getting so big, in fact, Clancy looks grown in this picture..

Our daughter in law celebrated her 40th birthday back in January.  I treated her and some of her friends to lunch at one of her favorite restaurants.  It was such a fun time and I'm pretty sure it helped to take the "sting" out of the big 40!!!

The assisted living facility where my Dad lives had a big Mardi Gras party last week.  I went over to attend with him and we had a good time.  I love the colors of Mardi Gras and decided to dress in Mardi Gras colors to match the fun Mardi Gras mask that I have had for many years.

Last Friday night our church hosted a mother/daughter 80's party.  Windy took the girls and they had a blast.  And, aren't they just the cutest and truly rocked the 80's look for sure.  And, just like the boys, these two are growing up so fast.

Andi Kate's 4th birthday is today but she celebrated it with her friends on Saturday.  She wanted a unicorn theme and I had no idea they made such cute unicorn items.  Her cake was too cute and she was so excited and enjoyed every minute of her partee!  It was her first party to invite friends, her first 3 were just family affairs.  She is such a ray of sunshine!

We had our Care Group (a small group within our Life Group at our church) over for dinner last night.  It was a most casual affair but I sure had fun adding some Valentine touches to the table.  I picked up these black plates  at the Dollar Tree a few years ago and at times they provide just the right look and I thought this was one of those times. And, speaking of the Dollar Tree, I found these cute heart vases there too.  You have to love a bargin!  I found this gorgeous heart dish at Pier 1 a couple of years ago for 50% off and it looks so good on a metal easel.  It graced the corner of the bar.  

And, each couple left with some of my "famous" fudge that I had made in heart shaped pans.  It was a fun evening of food and fellowship.  

NOTE:  We will be heading to Oklahoma to visit and to watch Clancy show his sheep this next Sat.  I'll be away for a few days but will likely have lots to share upon my return. Stay tuned!

Saturday 9

Saturday 9: Waiting for a Star to Fall (1988)

Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.
I had to listen to this to remember it.  I didn't recognize the name but as soon as I listened to it, it all came back.  I love this song!

1) "Waiting for a Star to Fall" was literally inspired by a falling star. The singing/songwriting duo of Boy Meets Girl was at a big, outdoor concert and could have sworn they saw a falling star in the night sky. Have you ever seen a falling star? 



Yes, I've seen several over my lifetime.  It's amazing how big the stars are as they look so small from where we are.
2) They offered this song to Whitney Houston, who declined to record it. Whitney did have hits with two other songs they wrote: "I Wanna Dance with Somebody" and "How Will I Know?" What's your favorite Whitney song?



Not only my favorite Whitney song but also one of my favorite all time songs and I've never heard anyone that could sing, "I'll Always Love You" quite like Whitney.

3) Boy Meets Girl were George and Shannon, a husband-and-wife team originally from Seattle, WA. In 2016, Seattle was named America's most "bike-friendly city." Do you own a bike?

I do not own a bike and have not owned a bike since I was a child.  But, if I did, I would want it to look just like the one above.  A cute pink bike, can't beat that!

4) George and Shannon met for the first time at a wedding. She was a guest, he was in the band. Think of the last wedding present you bought. Was it from the bride and groom's registry?
Yes, it was and I always try to buy from a registry if one is available.  I enjoy buying "a want" for someone but always make sure it is something that I like as well.  I do not give gifts that I don't care for. ~smile~

5) In 1988, when this song was popular, 98% of American homes had a TV set. Today, that figure has dipped to 96%, presumably because Millennials are watching more content online. What's the last video you watched online?

 I watch a Hallmark movie while I ride on my elliptical Monday thru Friday.  I'm currently watching Love Finds You In Valentine on my IPad.  It makes the time fly by.

6) In 1988 saw the introduction of one of the most memorable slogans of all time: "Just Do It." Without looking it up, do you know what brand "Just Do It" promotes? 
Oh, my goodness, it's NIKE!  Our son was 12 years old in 1988, the year Nike coined this slogan.  We were inundated with the slogan for a while.

7) In 1988, Sonny Bono went from entertainer to Republican politician when he was elected Mayor of PalmSprings. Have you ever met the mayor of your town?

Well, yes I have.  Our town is very small and it isn't really a big deal to meet and to know the mayor.  I guess that could be a good thing or perhaps a bad, especially for the mayor. 
~big smile~

8) Michael Douglas took home the Oscar in 1988 for his portrayal of Gordon Gekko in the movie Wall Street. The American Film Institute named Gekko one of the "top movie villains of all time." Do you think bad guys are as interesting as good guys?
Their stories can be quite interesting, especially of how they came to be the "bad guys."  But, I'll always be more interested in the good guys and their "claim to fame." 

9) Random question: Have you ever seen a photo of yourself naked? (Baby pictures don't count.)

My goodness, what a question!!!  No, no, no, I have never seen a photo of myself naked and, if I had, I sure wouldn't let you know it.  But, rest assured, I have never and will never.  You can take that to the bank!

We are off to celebrate this sweet girls 4th birthday this morning.  This is her first birthday to celebrate with friends and she is so excited she can hardly stand it.  She's been looking forward to today for a couple of months.  Our sweet Andi Kate!!!

Wednesday Medley - National Frozen Yogurt Day

Who knew it was National Frozen Yogurt Day?  I've about decided that there is a day for every thing on earth.  But, Terrie has come up with some good questions for us surrounding this day.

NATIONAL FROZEN YOGURT DAY

National Frozen Yogurt Day is observed annually on February 6th.

Frozen yogurt sales are increasing every year as people want a healthier alternative to ice cream. The explosion of flavors and topping choices add to the popularity of frozen yogurt.

Frozen Yogurt Day was the most fun of the choices for today's first question.  I have no idea why the creator chose a winter day to celebrate a frozen dessert, but here we are!!  Let's talk about food today (one of my favorite subjects)!

1.  Today, Wednesday, February 6th, is Frozen Yogurt Day!  A cold dessert on what must be a very cold day for most of you reading this today!  Do you enjoy frozen yogurt?  Does it matter what the weather is?  Share with us your favorite flavor and/or topping, please!!

Oh, indeed, I love frozen yogurt and it doesn't matter if the weather is cold, hot, or inbetween.  I only want vanilla and give me slivered almonds on top and I'm a most happy gal.  The problem is, I could not tell you the last time I had any.  We do not have any in our fair town and when I'm in Monroe (about 20+ miles from here) it's never when I'm wanting it.  So, it is a real treat whenever I do get some.

2.  What food do you know you shouldn't eat but can't help yourself?

I absolutely love barkThins!!!  And, I don't know that they are all that bad for you but I couldn't think of anything else.  Thankfully I have a whole lot of willpower and I only eat 1-2 at a time.  And, most of the time I do not buy them but occasionally I will cave and buy a bag and put it in our snack drawer.  It's just the right amount of sweet and salty.

3.  If your life was a meal, what kind of meal would it be?

I would start with a wonderful tossed salad (no tomatoes) with some good Ranch Dressing and some good hot rolls that are soft and buttery.  Then I'd want an order of stuffed mushrooms followed by a piece of coconut cream pie.  There are a couple of restaurants where we eat that have the best stuffed mushrooms and I always order them.  They are actually listed as appetizers but 4-6 of them make a perfect meal for me.

4.  Do you like spicy food?  Why or why not?  What is the spiciest food you have ever eaten?

Oh, my goodness, I LOVE spicy food!  It can hardly be too spicy for me.  At Christmas I made a delicious shrimp dish and it was really wayyyy to hot for my family.  It was not too hot for me, but I never serve anything that hot when I'm feeding our family or guests.

5.  (Most of you know I have been sick with a cold.) What food do you eat or crave when you have a bad cold?

I am just getting over an awful cold and guess I'm going to cough for 3 months.  I generally do not crave one thing except maybe hot coffee because it feels to good on my throat.  And, a good bowl of soup with a piece of cheese toast always helps with what ails. 

6.  Please tell us something random about your week (and maybe it will involve food).

This has nothing to do with food but it's about these two cute Grangirls of mine.  Our church is having a Mother/Daughter 80's party this Friday night and the girls (in the above pic) are modeling the outfits they will wear. I think they pretty much "nailed" the look and may likely be the cutest little girls there. ~big smile~ I'm not sure what their Momma is wearing but I am quite sure she'll be equally as cute.

Have a great rest of the week!

Sunday Stealing -

 This is #2 of "Three Wishes."

And, here it is, another Sunday and Bev has stolen some great questions from other blogs for us to answer today.  Thanks Bev, we appreciate your giving us "ready made" blog fodder.

16.) What is your favorite wild animal?

It would be the zebra.  I just love their coats, and somehow I always think how pretty a splash of red would be on them.  I guess because you often see red thrown in with zebra in the fashion world.  I think they are beautiful animals.

17.) Name 3 of your favorite childhood shows:

#1 would be Lassie, absolutely loved this show.

#2 would be I Love Lucy, so, so funny and so very clean.

#3 would be Bewitched, always was intrigued how she could wiggle her nose and magic happened.

18.) If you could live as a character in a movie who would it be?

The first one to come to my mind was Maria (Julie Andrews) in the Sound of Music.

19.) Favorite vegetable?

iBroccoli would rate right at the top but I like most veggies.  Steamed broccoli not only tastes good but is soooo good for you.  I don't need cheese sauce, just salt and pepper and I'm good. 

20.) Favorite Fruit?

I am not a fan of fruit at all but if I have to eat some then I would choose an apple.  Give me the salt shaker and I can probably eat a whole one that has been peeled and sliced. 

21.) If you had a dragon what would you name it?

First if I had a dragon, he would be a friendly dragon and his name would be Skippy.  I'm really not a fan of dragons. ~just saying~

22.) What do you put on hotdogs?

I start out with mustard on the bun, the put the wiener on the bun and then the fun begins.  It's then time for delicious homemade chili, onions, sliced jalapenos and topped with shredded cheddar cheese.  Talk about good, oh, my!!!

23.) Do you play online games?

It is a rarity for me to ever play an online game except when I am waiting at a Doctors appointment.  And, I have a few other games on my phone but the only one I ever play is Solitaire.  It is a great way to fill the time when waiting but I can generally always find something I would rather do at other times and generally always have something else that I should be doing.  ~smile~

24.) What's your favorite way to get inspired?

Oh, I can be inspired several ways, but the best is to ponder the Lord's faithfulness to my over my lifetime.  It often helps me to put things back into perspective. 

25.) Do you have a middle name?

I sure do but few folks know it.  It is..............
BETH

26.) If you had to order from a kid's menu, what would you get?

It would be a grilled cheese and fries.  I LOVE grilled cheese sandwiches!!!

27.) Do you speak any other languages?

NO indeed!

28.) Do you use Twitter?

I have had a Twitter account for several years and probably have not used it 5 times.  I just do not have time for it.  I do Facebook and that's about it as far as social media goes.

29.) Do you go onto YouTube?

I certainly do.  There's no better "how to" in the world.  I was just on YouTube a couple of days ago watching a video on how to tie the strings on my Duck Boots.  

30.) Do you play Angry Birds?

No! No! again, don't have time for such and don't have any desire either.  I think my Grandson use to play it, otherwise I probably would never have even heard of it.

And, I leave you with these........

However good or bad the situation, it will change.

Growing old beats the alternative of dying young.

No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.