EASYGOING COUNTRY LADY

HURRICANE IKE AFTERMATH

Sat, 27 Sep 2008 04:56:27 GMT

Fellow Americans:

After viewing Galveston and surrounding areas in Cheryl Photonut's newest photo album, and reading her blogs lately, I am appalled. This many days later, there is so little response from the people of the country and the government. Whole residential streets have been swept into the ocean with nothing but slabs and the pilings they sat upon left on the flooded land. No tarps for damaged roofs on homes that were spared, no generators. Walmart opened, but supplies go as fast as they come in. No electric, poor water.

No schools open where many children ate breakfast and lunch. Now they're pilfering for food, and breaking in. One man actually shot a 13 year old boy in the head for stealing chips and snack food. They are hungry, for Heaven's sake! Cheryl and grandchildren have to go somewhere to eat food provided by the Salvation Army. Those who have generators have to wait in line for 6 hours or more to get gasoline to run them. Click on CHERYL's space in my friends list and go see for yourself.

Now the point of this rant is, Where are the trillions of dollars going? Out there to the rest of the world, to finance the war (which may be necessary), to rebuild countries we fight wars in, loans to other countries (do we ever get paid back?), and to bail out financial institutions (that their major mistake-makers still walk away with millions for themselves), and millions are poured into presidential campaigns.

We have many thousands of families who have lost their homes to flooding and natural disasters, and have no home to return to, and people starving, without clean water, or fuel to go anywhere else. Here we are, several years after Katrina, and many of those victims still aren't rebuilt, either. People have become numbed to the tragedies happening in our own country, to our own people!

YES, I SAW THE DEBATE......SO WHAT? These victims didn't get to see it, or all the fuss about the crash of financial institutions. They were sweating in the dark, being eaten up by mosquitoes in the remains of what was once their homes, trying to figure out how to feed and clothe and protect their families.

My prayers go out to all those still suffering, easygoingcountrylady

AFTER IKE & A Legendary Woman

Sun, 14 Sep 2008 05:24:23 GMT

Thanks to all for all the good wishes and prayers!

As for my daughter and family in Houston, they got by with fallen tree limbs and loss of power. They do, however, have a generator to keep the freezer and fridge running to preserve their perishable foods.

Regarding my brother and his wife that were house-sitting in Pasadena, I have no word yet.

I got off easy since the Hurricane was down from a 3 to a 1 by the time it reached me. Currently, there are 600 households here without power. On my street, there were a few broken branches, but nothing serious. The lights flickered a few times, and then went off. It was kind of dark indoors, too, so I took a nap since I was up and down all night. The power came back after 20 minutes.

I find it amusing that my house, on an old street with old houses, regained power within 20 minutes. My wealthy friend in the fancier side of town is without power as of 9:15 pm, as are most of his neighbors. If he hadn't invited a family living in a trailer to stay there tonight, I would have invited him over, but I don't have accomodations for all of them.

He's going to be disappointed when he figures out he missed the Coco Chanel story on Lifetime. We'd been waiting for weeks to see it. What a talented, passionate woman! She started the idea in 1926 that all women should have a simple "little black dress" in their wardrobe. She started her career a a seamstress when released at age 18 from a convent. She worked from 7 am to 8 pm daily (13 hours) for a dressmaker. She lived in a room above, for which she was charged rent taken out of her wages. She later went into her own business creating hats, and finally was so in demand as a seamstress she became a fashion designer. After that came Chanel No. 5. She dropped out of sight for a few years, then at age 70, came back with a collection of clothing that failed in popularity, but she didn't give up. She later did another collection, against her business partner's advice, and it was a hit. Thus began the simple Chanel suit that is still a classic today.

Hugs, easygoingcountrylady

HURRICANE IKE

Sat, 13 Sep 2008 06:46:41 GMT

Here we go again! Hurricane Ike is the largest hurricane I ever saw, bigger than Texas, which is very darned big.

My main concern is my daughter and family in Houston, and my younger brother and his wife in Pasadena, TX, just south of Houston. My daughter and I talked about 9 pm tonight on the phone. Her husband reassured me of all the precautions they were taking to shelter in place. They had all the plywood and means to secure it. They piled sandbags against two plate glass sliding doors to the back yard. The two daughters, 11 and 4, are sleeping with their parents in a room right off the inner hallway, where they can go for safety. Right now, there are high winds and heavy rains in their area.

My brother and his wife were house-sitting for a lady who had gone out-of-state to tend an ill relative. He told my daughter they were going to try to board up and protect the house.

As for me in East Texas in direct line of Ike, too, I am well. I loaded a bag of canned, easy to open food, a tote with my medicines and insulin, a small suitcase in case I have to leave, and other small essentials and placed them in an inner hallway with no windows. It's adjacent to the bathroom (no window) where I have access to water and the linen closet and the toilet. I have many candles throughout the house, since power outages are probable. I'm considering sleeping in the hallway on couch cushions.

Right now, it's 1:08 am on Friday night, and I'm watching a Dallas station with full-time coverage of Hurricane Ike. I will stay up very late, and the storm is expected in my area between 4 and 6 in the morning. I have friends next door and a friend a couple of miles away who will be checking on me in the morning, since my cordless phone will be useless if the power goes off. I went out to move my junky car next to the house and away from large trees. The old garage with no doors is useless; it would probably fall over in a strong wind. My at-home provider that comes in 3 days a week helped me move in my plants and other things from my porch. Anything could be a missile in high winds.

I feel I've taken all the necessary precautions, so don't worry, but prayers couldn't hurt. Besides, if the weather is unbearable without power, there is a hospital lobby with generator only half a block away. My prayers go out to Cheryl Photonut and any others in the way of Hurricane Ike.

easygoingcountrylady

Hurricane Gustav and Other News

Sun, 31 Aug 2008 21:37:09 GMT

* My daughter and her family in Houston cancelled their trips to prepare for Gustav, by boarding up their lovely home, packing necessities for evacuation, and prepare their pets for leaving, too. Daughter AD says one of her employer's clients in New Orleans, has plane tickets to Tennessee.

Locally, here in East Texas, the shelters and charitables organizations are getting stocked up on water and supplies, setting up cots, and taking Red Cross and other "Volunteer Boot Camp" training to do the most efficient help they can. I went to the grocer's on Saturday, and the bread shelves and others were nearly empty already.

In Dallas/Fort Worth area, military veterans are helping to receive about 500 or more sick and disabled transported from Louisiana, and helping get them set up in area medical facilities.

On TV, they said some of the buses transporting refugees out of New Orleans are going as far as Oklahoma.

* About billionaire Richard Branson, who even sold some things to revamp Virgin Airlines: Virgin America has been proclaimed the best domestic airline. He upped the service onboard, and they now fly seven major cities.

* Branson and other influential people like Nelson Mandela and former president Jimmy Carter are forming a sort of Council of Elders, to get together the best experience, minds and money to help solve world problems. I have to say I am impressed, and wish them the best of luck.

* I am pleased that "My Name Is Earl" is doing so well on TBS, because more people need to understand what alcohol recovery is about. Unfortunately, many people think alcoholics are lower class. Alcoholics come from all lifestyles that allow alcohol. Too bad that "Grace Under Fire" and "The John Larroquette Show", both about alcoholics in recovery, didn't last longer, too. I really loved those shows.

* I wish John McCain hadn't done that! By selecting such an inexperienced, less qualified woman as his vice-presidential running mate, he mocks Americans' intelligence. It took less than a day for the criticism to start. I hoped he would pick an excellently-qualified running mate we could rely on if they had to take his place, given his age and all. His wife would have been better than Palin. At least Cindy is already involved in world projects to help the human race.

* I have to admit Barack Obama's acceptance speech was impressive----I just hope he doesn't eliminate programs that are badly needed to save some of the others. Solving the Iraq situation could save us billions of dollars that were taken from other areas to finance the war.

* Frankly, this is one of those election years that feels like we don't have good choices to vote for.

Hope everyone stays safe, easygoingcountrylady

MISC. TIDBITS OF NEWS

Wed, 27 Aug 2008 09:46:11 GMT

A few news items:

*Did you hear that Julia Child, Theodore Roosevelt's son and Ernest Heminway's son were all WWII spies for the OSS, the early version of CIA?

* Congratulations to all the American Olympic medal winners!

*Condolences to the loved ones and all the fans of Bernie Mac, and also Isaac Hayes.

*I recently saw a documentary about Katrina survivors in St. Bernard Parish, Louisiana, that was taped in 2006. Many families were related, and had no one to turn to, since their relatives were in the affected area, too. At the time of the taping, only 3 families in the whole parish had received the promised federal assistance. I wonder how the rest are now??

*Isn't it silly how many people think wishful thinking makes them parents (OR NOT) of both legitimate and ilegitimate children? They go on television shows in front of the world, where DNA makes liars out of so many. There are women who claim men are the daddy "because they look just like him", and men who deny paternity because "they don't look like" him, amid other excuses.

I'm getting bored with the stupidity of most of them. Why neglect, deny and punish the child that very possibly could be theirs? How could one ever make that up to a child?

Look at all the kids raised by the legal husband of the mother, whether it was his or not, before DNA testing. I wonder how many of us are really of the DNA of our "fathers"? It seems practical that some cultures' ancestry is traced through the mother, not the father.

I know an Eskimo lady who explained to me how, if they got pregnant and couldn't afford another child, they would give the child to their siblings or cousins or other relatives who wanted a child. Her first husband raised 5 children in Alaska after their divorce. She married a Texan later, and had 2 more. After he was incarcerated when they were in elementary school, she met a sweet, sober man who has been helping her raise the 2 children. Both the mother and children are healthy and happy.

I guess my point is, a father is a man who fathers, (provides for, protects and loves the child), not just donates the sperm.

*Thank goodness the weather has cooled some and we had more rain than usual this time of year. Everything was parched. The temperatures are between the 70's and 90's now.

*My oldest daughter and her two little girls will visit this Labor Day weekend from Houston.

I hope all is well for my Space friends, easygoingcountrylady

FAMILY SAFETY

Sat, 16 Aug 2008 04:11:12 GMT

For those who googled for sites that let you know about kidnappers, etc.... Go to http:/familywatchdog.us/

This site can be used in the USA by entering your state, your city, or your address. You get a map with "pins" in locations near you. By clicking on one, you get a profile and picture with name, address, and description of the charges against the registered offender at that location.

Also, note they have a small sidebar listing recent recalls by the Food and Drug Administration. They offer a free family safety guide, and other interesting info.

I wish you helpful surfing on that site. easygoingcountrylady

What I'm doing

Tue, 12 Aug 2008 07:09:20 GMT

Just dropping a few lines to let my friends know I'm okay for now.

I've been awful busy the last few weeks. I have had at least four different doctor's appointments and tests in the last month and have 3 more before September. It's just that time of year that I have to do annual checkup stuff.

Medicaid has included eyeglasses with the eye exam this time. They only do it every 2 years, but my eye doctor has me coming in every six months. This is due to the effect diabetes has on my eyes.

I am being paperworked to death by different agencies to be recertified for each. Seems like all at once. Having such a hard time with all the paperwork involved, and receipts and records to keep, I bought a bunch of file envelopes and labels, etc... and have been going through boxes and boxes of records that are necessary for qualifying for the different programs I rely on. Can't even throw away receipts for over-the-counter supplements that I pay for "out-of-pocket". Producing these receipts helps lower my share of the rent on Hud, helps raise food stamps amount, and qualifies me for other things as well.

I hope no one has the audacity to ask me what I do all day! I do all this stuff, plus all the normal stuff any other household has to do.

As for the fractured shoulder and broken arm, I am using it normally most of the time now, but sometimes at night, after a busy day, it really aches. But I can live with it if I have to.

I have committed to going to a recovery meeting at least once a week with my lady friend, who is now in cancer remission. Last fall, doctors told her she wasn't long for this world. Amazing what prayer and supportive people can do to help.

My male friend (platonic) has started trying to get out the house, too, so he's started inviting me to go places with him, like to see "Mamma Mia" in the local movie theater, and then dinner afterward. Sounds good to me!

Hope everyone is staying cool during these horrific summer scorchers,

easygoingcountrylady

Life is good

Sun, 06 Jul 2008 06:31:33 GMT

Mostly Good News

*I paid my first month's rent at HUD rate, $181. My landlord and I calculate my summer utilities to be about $200-220 total per month. In the winter, the electric will drop, and natural gas will go up. Either way, the landlord saves a lot on the utilities and I save a lot on my rent.

*Next month, rent will be even less, after they calculate in my records of out-of-pocket medical expenses. My daughter in Houston will save some money, since sometimes when she comes to visit (3 or 4 times a year), she takes me to Walmart to restock on my supplements that are doctor-ordered.

*I finished my physical therapy on July 3, but I have grown fond of the therapists who worked there. They asked me to drop by for a visit now and then, and I will.

*I am happy to have my regular household provider back from her vacation in Missouri.

*My sister in San Angelo, Texas has finally gotten an email address. Thank God! Talk about long-winded phone calls!

Hello to all my Space friends, and hope you had a great July 4th. easygoingcountrylady

News and other tidbits

Sun, 22 Jun 2008 04:31:45 GMT

Hello, Spaces Friends! I have lots of news.

*I have finally had the HUD inspection where I live and she is going to pass it. The few problems she noted, she gives the landlord a year to fix. They expect me to live here a year, unless the landlord or I break the rental agreement, or I have major medical complications and have to move in with family or worse. With HUD paying a large part of my rent, and I pay the utilities, both the landlord and I get a break. He has only raised the rent $20 a month in nearly 8 years. Nice landlord, huh?

*My arm and shoulder are much better. I am doing physical therapy 3 times a week for 2 more weeks. The therapist gave me one of those rubber straps to tie on a doorknob at home to exercise my arms.

*My ex's current woman called me last night. She "just needed someone who knows him to talk to". Seems he went of to California on a contract job for 3 weeks and stayed 7, plus he was always late to the motel room and missed their agreed-upon calls. If that wasn't enough, when it was time to go home, he went to Missouri for a great job offer instead. She refused to go, and he went anyway. Problem was, she called his relatives when the guy in California called for him at home. Eventually, she remembered the company who offered him an easy, well-paying desk job. She called the main office in Kansas City, Missouri and asked for him, and they put him on the phone. He's such an emotional coward.

Then he called me today, unaware she had called me. Quite interesting, his side of the story. Maybe he did make the best decision for the high-paying stable job, but he should have at least told her he was taking it, instead of not going home. She needed to know so she could arrange to provide for herself. I hope he helps her to get on her own 2 feet, since financially, he's better off. She's disabled, too, frm an accident. They had a child together, but the little one is in the custody of one of the mother's family members. He did assure me he is continuing to pay the child support, and hopes to get the visitation agreement changed by the court, since the child is in Houston, Texas area.

I am so glad I don't have all the stress of being with him anymore. He's only 38 years old now. He's been gone over 5 years. I am 59.

*My place looks much better now, thanks to the help of my household provider from the at-home healthcare service. Funny thing is, she and her husband went on vacation from Friday the 13th through tomorrow, the 22nd, to........ GUESS WHERE? Missouri. The agency sent a substitute in her place to help me, so I just gritted my teeth and got through it.

*I was coaxed by my caseworker into accepting Meals On Wheels lunches 5 days a week. Not too bad. They are hot, have healthy veggies. Living alone, I tend toward sandwiches during the day, but the bread adds too much carbohydrates to my diabetic diet. So, as our dear Martha Stewart says, "It's a good thing." (Meals On Wheels)

*Did you hear that The Red Cross desperately needs donations to help all the flooded people in Iowa?

Happy Space-walking, y'all! easygoingcountrylady

Talking about How Women Got The Vote

Thu, 12 Jun 2008 08:52:37 GMT

I was appalled by this "Night of Terror" on Nov.15, 1917, a story blogged about by Terri-Peaches from my friends list. As Terri suggested, I am passing this on, because we all need to appreciate those who fought and sacrificed so that we, the women of America, could vote.

Love to all. Get out there and vote! easygoingcountrylady

Quote

How Women Got The Vote

A history lesson for all of us....

Every woman should read this. I learned something I don't remember reading about.

How Women Got the Vote
The women were innocent and defenseless. And by the end of the night,
they were barely alive. Forty prison guards wielding clubs and their
warden's blessing went on a rampage against the 33 women wrongly convicted of
"obstructing sidewalk traffic."

They beat Lucy Burn, chained her hands to the cell bars above her head
and left her hanging for the night, bleeding and gasping for air. They
hurled Dora Lewis into a dark cell, smashed her head against an iron
bed and knocked her out cold. Her cellmate, Alice Cosu, thought Lewis
was dead and suffered a heart attack. Additional affidavits describe
the guards grabbing, dragging, beating, choking, slamming, pinching,
twisting and k icking the women.

Thus unfolded the "Night of Terro r" on Nov. 15, 1917, when the warden
at the Occoquan Workhouse in Virginia ordered his guards to teach a lesson to
the suffragists imprisoned there because they dared to picket Woodrow
Wilson's White House for the right to vote.

For weeks, the women's only water came from an open pail. Their
food--all of it colorless slop--was infested with worms. When one of the leaders,
Alice Paul, embarked on a hunger strike, they tied her to a chair,
forced a tube down her throat and poured liquid into her until she
vomited. She was tortured like this for weeks until word was smuggled
out to the press.

So, refresh my memory. Some women won't vote this year because--why,
exactly? We have carpool duties? We have to get to work? Our vote
doesn't matter? It's raining?

Last week, I went to a sparsely attended screening of HBO's new movie
"Iron Jawed Angels." It is a graphic depiction of the battle these
women waged so t hat I could pull the curtain at the polling booth and
have my say. I am ashamed to say I needed the reminder.

All these years later, voter registration is still my passion. But the
actual act of voting had become less personal for me, more rote.
Frankly, voting often felt more like an obligation than a privilege.
Sometimes it was inconvenient.

My friend Wendy, who is my age and studied women's history, saw the HBO
movie, too. When she stopped by my desk to talk about it, she looked
angry. She was--with herself. "One thought kept coming back to me as I
watched that movie," she said. "What would those women think of the way
I use--or don't use--my right to vote? All of us take it for granted
now, not just younger women, but those of us who did seek to learn."
The right to vote, she said, had become valuable to her "all over
again." HBO will run the movie periodically b efore releasing it on
video and DVD. I wish all histor y, social studies and government
teachers would include the movie in their curriculum. I want it shown
on Bunko night, too, and anywhere else women gather. I realize this
isn't our usual idea of socializing, but we are not voting in the
numbers that we should be, and I think a little shock therapy is in
order.

It is jarring to watch Woodrow Wilson and his cronies try to persuade a
psychiatrist to declare Alice Paul insane so that she could be
permanently institutionalized. And it is inspiring to watch the doctor
refuse. Alice Paul was strong, he said, and brave. That didn't make
her crazy. The doctor admonished the men: "Courage in women is often
mistaken for insanity."

Please pass this on to all the women you know. We need to get out and
vote and use this right that was fought so hard for by these very
courageous women.

Me and Brief News Notes.

Tue, 10 Jun 2008 08:53:58 GMT

Hello, my friends! Just dropped in for a few minutes to let you know I'm still here, but have been busy cleaning house for a HUD inspection. If I get into a housing program, they will help pay my rent, freeing up a little money for other needs.

I have worked so hard that on Monday when I went for my first physical therapy, the therapist was impressed with how far I have progressed on my own. Well, I had to do something........it takes so long to get medical-type appointments in small towns.

Anyway, here are a few brief notes I noticed in the news lately:

*Yves St. Laurent, the designer that started the fashion of pantsuits for women, has passed away.

*Barack Obama, the Democratic candidate---I guess we have to wait and see.

*Texas Governor's Mansion---set fire by an arsonist, rendering useless the years and money already spent on renovations in recent years. So far, they haven't caught the arsonist, of course.

*Sidney Poitier, first black to win an Oscar for Best Actor---has penned another book about life, faith and growing up in the Bahamas. I think it's Life Beyond Measure.

*The Mask---saw it again on tv the other night. Those colorful, wild dance numbers---wouldn't he be great on "Dancing With The Stars"?

*A Tip For Smokers---(I am one) The products to remove nicotine stains from white walls and painted woodwork is Clorox Clean-Up Spray Cleaner (first), and (second)a sponge mop and a bucket of warm water to rinse it off. In small areas like above doors and windows, it's easier to use a stepladder and clean cloths. Remove or cover articles near the area, like TVs, electronics, drapes, and pictures from the wall. Start at the top and work your way down. This product works better than any I've used.

Thanks for all your visits and comments, easygoingcountrylady

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Mon, 26 May 2008 13:39:33 GMT

Thanks to all for your visits and comments.

* Today is Memorial Day, and thanks to those men and women who gave their all for their country, and for those who still are.

* Although, like most Americans, I may criticize how we do things, I still say it's one of the best countries and our system is always improving. I can't think of any place I'd rather be on a permanent basis.

* Is this a great election year or what? A brief description of major candidates:

A woman with experience meeting foreign dignitaries, with the laws, and working with others (as a senator and former first lady). We know her weaknesses and strengths already.

An African-American young man, well-educated, idealistic, hoping to fix a lot of America's problems.

A senior American veteran who actually served his country in the military, was a prisoner of war for several years, and experience as a senator.

Isn't that wonderful? A woman, an African-American, and a senior veteran! I never thought I'd live to see the day! No wonder so many young people are so excited, too.

* About Hilary's RFK comment---didn't anyone else hear that it was about how California and June can change everything? What about when Ross Perot was way ahead and just dropped out?

* About the two states who held early primaries, and all those millions of votes don't count---isn't that taxation without representation?

* Puerto Rico is a territory, but not a state of the U.S., and is allowed a primary vote, but not election vote. They don't pay U.S. taxes. Since Hilary mentioned trying to get them full voting rights, I hope she meant taxation, too, like the rest of us.

* I realize we must always help other countries in emergency situations, but with all these natural disasters in the U.S., shouldn't "charity begin at home"?

* Am I the only one alarmed by so many fat kids, that eat luch out of vending machines instead of school lunches (not much better), who spend more time on the computer than playing sports outdoors, or riding in cars than walking or biking? Whatever happened to PE in schools? Has anyone noticed that obesity and diabetes is rampant in every age group now? The primary soloution for both are diet and exercise.

* I grew up when canned goods made things easy, then came fast foods. I wish I was a better cook of fresh vegetables, and would like to find that kind of recipe website. I am a diabetic with 6 stents in my heart, and at least 40 pounds overweight for the last 2 decades. I do keep up with the Epicurious website and find some recipes there. Any referrals?

Hugs to all my Space friends, easygoingcountrylady

Okay! I'm back!

Sun, 11 May 2008 05:25:17 GMT

* I am back to blogging, and so grateful for all the comments and well-wishes.

* I'm still sore and achy, with stiff shoulder joint, but improving range of movement of my arm.

* I'm still doubtful about Obama. He's just too good to be true. (Just personal opinion)

* Had a visit last weekend from daughter, son-in-law, and 2 granddaughters from Houston. Things went smoothly.

* Son-in-law gave me a few lessons with the digital camera. I'll post some pics soon.

* I had to trim back some of my guestbook entries with the huge graphics----it was taking a very long time for my page to load. I tried to leave an entry from everyone, since I believe the beautiful graphics enhance my page.

* I heard from friends in Houston---one member of their family has recently, in the last year or so, lost her mother, her 20-yr.old son, her father (very recent), and now her sister was in a terrible accident and not expected to make it. It's hard to imagine how she goes on with such horrific losses one right after another. I am praying for all of them.

* I spent Saturday afternoon with my lady friend who lives down the street. She seemed in good spirits because recent tests seem to indicate her cancer's in remission. We went out to sit by the lake. Kids splashing and yelling, motorboats and pontoon boats going back and forth, warm sun and gentle breezes. Nice..... Then drove around looking for garage sales. We lasted about 4 hours away from home, then both of us wanted to go home for a nap. LOL.

I hope all of you are enjoying the season, too. easygoingcountrylady

The Hunt and Peck Typing Method

Sun, 30 Mar 2008 03:46:38 GMT

I'm typing this with one hand because I fell carrying in bags of groceries and fractured my left shoulder. So I may not type much the next few weeks, but I will try to keep up with what's happening with all my friends. Hugs, easygoingcountrylady

SPACES INFO/ HELP PAGES

Thu, 27 Mar 2008 07:27:02 GMT

One space that really helped me a lot, and provides links to other related subjects, I found by clicking on the friends-hugging icon in the top right corner of my Spaces page, between "Options and the "Help" question mark.

The description that appears when you rest your cursor on it is "Explore the Spaces community".

Clicking on it takes you to a page that has a feature in the top left corner with three tabs. "Hot Space" features someone's space that is usually pretty good. This changes spaces regularly.

"Spacecraft" is a very helpful space written by Spaces staff. They describe new features of Spaces, how they are supposed to work, and where to give feedback if they don't. There are lists of other links for related problems or topics. There is a link to gadgets available for building up your own space. There is a normal guestbook and friends list for their space, too. They explain SkyDrive and Events and other Spaces features.

Other helpful things on my own space are "Customize" and "Options". I had to learn not to be afraid of investigating features on the page.

"Customize" has a handy sub-menu for adding modules, rearranging your space, layout, etc.... My favorite is "Exit edit mode", which allows me to view my page as visitors see it. One thing different is my friends list, which doesn't show invited people who have not yet accepted my invitation. To view the invited people, I have to go back to edit mode.

In "Options", there are settings for my space, for communications, permissions, settings for blog and guestbooks, etc... My favorite is "Statistics", where I can see a list of who's viewing or searching my space by topics, how many total views of my space, how many this week and how many in the last 24 hours.

I had to learn a lot of this through trial and error, or tips from viewers of my page, so if this helps anyone out there, I'm pleased to have helped. Scrunch up your courage and explore, explore, explore!

Looking forward to visiting all your spaces, easygoingcountrylady

Friends List

Tue, 18 Mar 2008 08:37:41 GMT

Hi, Folks!

Just dropping a few lines to let you know I've added some interesting folks to my friends list. There are several ladies from Australia; native Americans; interesting writers; opinionated, loyal Americans and veterans.

I accepted a few invites and deleted a couple who never accepted my invites, didn't ever visit my page or comment. I am waiting on some new ones to accept. Nearly every one I invited, I found on one of my friends' list. Thanks, every one of you.

I spent some time adding notes about new ones, with category tags, to make browsing my friends list easier to find people with similar interests.

Browse, visit and make new friends! easygoingcountrylady

I thought I should let you know

Fri, 14 Mar 2008 05:00:09 GMT

I'm sorry it took me so long to get back to blogging. I have been busy getting a household provider back here to help with housework, and 2 of my favorite people have had terrible times the last few months. My lady friend wound up married for less than 2 months, and was abused. She was already on disability with a cane. She has cancer, not for the first time. Her healthcare provider in her town got her into a shelter here. The shelter got her into an assisted-living building behind the hospital and half a block from me.

Last weekend she nearly died from a medication mistake when the visiting nurse replenished her pillbox. It was----guess what? She was supposed to substitute one med for another, instead, she put both Valium and Xanax in the same dose compartment.

My friend had water running in the tub to soak her back pain (from 5 deteriorating disks), and dropped unconscious. When the neighbor below called the manager because she was being flooded from the ceiling, the manager went in and found her in the livingroom floor. The distance to the hospital was the building parking lot and the hospital parking lot between the two, but an ambulance had to take her so the EMTs could work on her. They told her later she breathed only 7 times in 1 minute!

Anyway, I wondered why she didn't return my calls---thought maybe a relative got her for a visit or something. After 2 days, I got a message that she wanted me to take her home from the hospital.

Stunned, I went up the block to the hospital. They were removing IVs, oxygen tube, and a catheter, poor thing. Paper work wasn't finished yet. When the nurse left, I asked why didn't she have someone call me, since none of her relatives live here. She said all she remembered was blacking out at home and waking up in her hospital room. She said she couldn't tell them who SHE was, much less remember anyone's name or number on the first day.

So we finally got her back home, and I got the manager to unlock it so I could get her walker with the fold-down seat to pull her into the elevator and into her apartment. She's already using a hospital bed at home, so I got her to bed, set up her remote and other stuff and the hospital discharge instructions. She insisted I didn't have to stay, but it still made me uneasy.

I went the next day to fill a prescription and pick up a few items. It was Monday, so I urged her to call her home health care agency to inform them her circumstances were worse, and she needed more frequent help. They got a different nurse and a household provider for chores and companionship for a few hours daily. They cook, too, if you want. On Tuesday, 4 different agencies came to talk to her. One is providing her with a "Scooter" chair. Anyway, it's about time she caught a break.

My other friend called early (for him) this morning. I asked why, and he said he was in the ER all night. They said he had blood clots in both legs, and they gave him something to dissolve the clots before they could move to the lungs (fatal) or his heart or brain. He's better and in less pain, and at home. Hopefully, he won't have to have surgery. He doesn't scare easily, but he gave me directions about securing his house and pet if he goes into the hospital.

I don't know where I would be if they weren't there for me in the past. All I can say is, thank God for friends or we'd all be screwed.

easygoingcountrylady

More about healthcare

Wed, 30 Jan 2008 07:40:11 GMT

Please note that the previous blog was random thoughts, not getting on the soapbox to vote for or defend any one person.

Thanks to Millie in "Comments" for pointing out a lot of info about Hilary's health care plan in Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia. To read more about it, click on the site address shown in Millie's comment following my previous blog.

I think my main point in mentioning the Clintons' effort to get universal health care was that they were trying to do something good for us, the people. That the plan didn't get passed or turn out to be a better plan was our loss, and does not disprove the need for something to be done.

Also, I have no criticism for anyone who comes up with a better plan. I hope someone does, however, Bill and Hilary's experiences with the pitfalls and politics of getting it passed might come in handy.

I, for one, have been uninsured for much more of my life than insured. My health would not be near as serious as it is, if I had the insurance or the means to have gone to the doctor or hospital years ago, when I first began having symptoms of things going wrong. Like many families, I sacrificed my own well-being to provide other needs for my family, like food, clothing, and decent living conditions. Several of my serious health problems could have been avoided with affordable health care.

Wishing you all wellness, easygoingcountrylady

A FEW RANDOM THOUGHTS

Tue, 29 Jan 2008 08:55:47 GMT

Just a few random thoughts on what's going on in the rest of the world:

* Australian actor Heath Ledger---did any one notice the drugs he took were Xanax, Valium and---yes---Ambien? Jack Nicholson commented, "I've been trying to tell everyone to watch out for Ambien; I nearly drove off a cliff!"

* State of the Union address---President Bush suggested when military personnel don't use their educational benefits, to be able to sign it over to their spouse or children. (On the topic of helping the families of military personnel.)

* Commentators ignored what Bush said about making sure we budget for "entitled benefits" like Social Security and providing for our veterans.

* Most presidential candidates, and Bush, are talking now about universal health care for citizens. Never mind that the Clintons campaigned (for Bill, years ago) with a plan that Congress refused to pass.

* I saw a special on PBS about Sargent Shriver, husband of Eunice Kennedy and father of Maria Shriver. I was amazed to find out how many things he accomplished, such as Peace Corp and Head Start and Lyndon Johnson's "War on Poverty". There were many other programs, too numerous to mention, that Shriver researched and organized, and visited each Congressperson to get bills passed.

* In the parking lot at Walmart the other day, there was a car with this painted on the door:

"Powered by Recycled Vegetable Oil"

* Did you notice that several of the famous Kennedys have endorsed their support for Barack Obama?

*Why is everyone griping about Bill Clinton backing Hilary? Those are the same ones who griped and joked about Hilary being in charge when Bill was president. They are both strong people who back each other.

* I don't normally like to discuss politics or religion, but all the major networks dropped regular programming on TV to feature the State of the Union address.

* When something affects me or someone I know personally, I may grudgingly get involved, but once I commit, it's total.

Hugs to all my Space friends, easygoingcountrylady

I'm Okay

Mon, 21 Jan 2008 04:03:41 GMT

Just a brief update to let you know I am okay. I have been busy doing catch up with all the doctor's appointments that I missed during my hospitalizations and long visits out of town to Houston, Texas and New Mexico during Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Two were necessary due to diabetes. The podiatrist is important due to poor nerves in the feet and possibility of not realizing injury and infection. The eye doctor has special tests for diabetics for prevention of cataracts, glaucoma and blindness.

Tomorrow, I travel to a nearby town to see the endocrinologist who does my diabetes management by determining insulin dosage and coordinating the types of medicines for the various illnesses I have.

Today, Sunday, my daughter from Houston, her husband and children were visiting since Saturday and went back home this afternoon. My son-in-law showed me how to download pictures from my new digital camera they gave me for Christmas. I hope I get it right when I try to load a new album to my space. At least I can read the directions in the manual. LOL.

I have been checking on you, too. Just wasn't up to blogging yet. My flu/cold is much better. Hugs to all my Spaces friends, easygoingcountrylady

Photo Album: 4/23/2008

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 00:28:18 GMT

4/23/2008

SM awakens

ED--Houston

BD--Houston

SM--New Mexico

BD-YEARS BACK

ED_Fall_2005

ED_Houston 2008

the-gang-Houston-2008

Photo Album: May 31,2007

Fri, 22 Aug 2008 17:01:40 GMT

May 31,2007

Ashes

LN, Me, AM

Granchildren E & B

Cattitude

about chores

Easygoing_Country

LN#1

LN#2

SM 3rd Bday

SM and Daddy

More Photos...

Book List: Favorite Books & Authors

Thu, 20 Mar 2008 18:39:50 GMT

Favorite Books & Authors

Agatha Christie: 13 for Luck
Decide among 13 short mysteries if your favorite is Hercule Poirot (detective), Miss Jane Marple (spinster), Harley Quinn (the invisible), Mr. Parker Pyne (personal consultant), Tommy and Tuppence (partners in crime), or Inspector Evans (Scotland Yard).
Kathleen Woodiwiss: Ashes in the Wind
Big thick civil war romance by one of the best historical romance writers. Heroine dresses as a boy to hide from Yankees, and serves as a houseboy for one. Another good one is "Shanna", who must marry a man quick to get her inheritance, in the tropics
Dave Barry: Big Trouble
Pulitzer-Prize columnist Dave Barry will make you laugh so hard at this fast-paced funny mystery. A comedy of errors with Russian hoods, klutsy NJ hitmen, drifters, a toad, a dog, a dysfunctional family.(Movie, same name: Tim Allen, Renee Russo)
Gregory McDonald: Carioca Fletch
Fletch (played by Chevy Chase in several movies)is mistaken fora murdered Brazilian's re-incarnation and must solve the old murder to save his life.There are 7 Fletch books, and others about different characters. Great NY Times reviews, too.
Dick Francis: Dead Cert
Great British mysteries by the Queen's former jockey. Every book is somehow connected with horse-racing, whether the hero is a jockey, detective, banker, wine merchant, photographer, portrait painter of winning horses.....etc.....
Parris Afton Bonds: Dream Time
Historical Romance--Heroine is exiled to Australia and makes a new life. Her cast-aside daughter is another strong character. Other books: Dream Keeper, For All Time, Deep Purple. These are strong heroines.
Isaac Asimov: Foundation Series
Science fiction of the "nuts-and-bolts type" that surprises youwith mind control, love, obsessive hate, and deep space. He's written hundreds of stories, encyclopedia articles, history, biblical research, about Shakespeare, and science.
Richard Bach: Illusions: Confessions of a Reluctant Messiah
Biplane barnstormer meets another pilot with no bugs on his windshield, and he carries a book called the Messiahs' Handbook. Also, bestseller "Jonathan Livingston Seagull", "Bridge Across Forever"(love story), and sequel "One" . A warm fuzzy feeling.
Sidney Poitier: Measure of a Man
Take Oprah's advice and read this. Many people are changing their lives and using it as a guide on how to raise their children. It's amazing how far he came to become the first black man to receive an Oscar. Non-fiction.
Kevin Trudeau: Natural Cures (They Don't Want You to Know About)
The famous infomercial book about natural and over-the counter items you can use to help yourself. Kevin reminds us that doctors are trained to use drugs or surgery to solve our problems. Worth reading to decide if it helps.
Louis L'Amour: Sackett Series
Over 100 westerns, several WWII and modern detective stories.The hero or heroine always knows THE ONE when they meet, always has a mentor or philosophy, defends the poor, helpless or out-numbered, and has strong family loyalty. Great researcher.
non-fiction by Neil T. Anderson: The Bondage Breaker
Experienced Christian counselor helps victims or former cult participants be free of satanic or demonic influence. Also "Victory Over The Darkness", "The Seduction of Our Children", and "Winning Spiritual Warfare". Don't scoff; These are real "How-To's".
Robert Ludlum: The Parsifal Mosaic
Best thrillers I ever read. Also author of "The Bourne Identity". Much intrigue and mystery in every book, with evil villains and plots on a world-wide scale. "The Road to Gandolfo" will make you laugh out loud.
non-fiction published by Zondervan: The Recovery Bible
Done in New International Version, has informative articles, sidebars to apply to today's life, and margin references to the 12 Steps of Recovery. Has glossary and references. Buy in Christian bookstore or look up on internet. About $25.
Thomas Harris: The Red Dragon
Intense detective vs. maniac story. Also wrote "Silence of theLambs" and "Hannibal". "Red Dragon" was the first I read; it was gripping suspense. I was hooked evermore.
Stephen King: The Stand
My favorite King novel of all time. About people after a leakof biological germs that begins to spread around the world, and how the immune survivors choose to recreate their society, and the intense confrontation between good and evil.
Robert Silverberg: Valentine
For lovers of fantasy and science fiction, mystical, magical andwinged people, other worlds and cultures. Many books to delight and dream of being there yourself.
Mary Higgins Clark: Where Are the Children?
Suspense of the best-selling kind. Other books are "The Cradle Will Fall", "A Stranger Is Watching", "Stillwatch", and a collection of short stories, "The Anastasia Syndrome".

Custom List: Other web pages I like

Tue, 18 Mar 2008 08:40:02 GMT

Other web pages I like

Millie's Attic
Very fun place with games, jokes, pictures, and blogs. Has something for everyone---just explore!
Fairlight
Someone I'd like to meet. Great recipes that are new to me. Interesting blogs.
Howling from My Mountain
Editor/writer with lots of good info for aspiring writers. Shares her love of mountains in North Carolina with stunning photos.
Aunt Tea's Cup
Lots of varied interests, great friends list, can wander in there for hours.
Inside My World
Lovely lady has come through a hellish life. A skilled photographer now at risk for blindness. Photos, blogs are engrossing.
Aunt Tea's Photo Flavors
An online camera club for photographers! Not just for looking, but participate, too.Has changing themes.
Someday Quilter
Busy, humorous lady with piles of varied projects. Loves family, photography, book list of quilting, crochet, and other crafts, lists of quilting websites, fiction books, famous quotes.
Michiko's Home
Lady adjusting to living in Australia. Loves her dogs and grandkids. Strong interest in crochet, current events and modern day problems.
wyatt's place
Canadian Yahoo360 page---poetry by many poets, some famous. Has Yahoo group of same name to communicate with other fans, poets and readers.
Who Let The World In
Sharon's writing draws you right in from the first line. A cross between Mark Twain and Norman Rockwell.

Custom List: Interesting Places

Thu, 06 Mar 2008 06:45:52 GMT

Interesting Places

Bandera, Texas
"Cowboy Capital of the World", with 7 world champs from the area. Rodeos, dancing, dude ranches (20 within 50 miles), several campgrounds in town. River lined with giant cypress trees. Great country dancehalls. Real cowboys and cowgirls.
Lost Maples State Natural Area
Fall foliage and over 300 species of birds that people come from everywhere, even Europe, to see Lost Maples State Natural Area, just north of Vanderpool and Utopia, TX. The road by Vanderpool store is scenic drive over mountain and cliffs.Drive slow!
Monahans Sand Dune State Park
Miles and miles of sand dunes where you can get out of the car to play. Flattened cardboard boxes make good sleds to slide down the dunes. Bring water, you're in West Texas.
Rusk, Texas
A State historic railroad to Palestine,TX for lunch and back. Old footbridge to explore. County courthouse on square has walls full of murals (painted by prisoners) depicting the area history. Cherokee Theater has live stage plays.
San Angelo, Texas
West Texas town, about 80,000 pop. Mesquite, mulberry, and cedar trees. Visit Ft. Concho Museum, Miss Wool Pageant, drag racing, Concho River walks and amusement park. Home of Goodfellow Air Force Base, O.C.Fisher Lake & Lake Nasworthy.
Grapeland, Texas
A drive-thru safari 1 mile north, has zebras, Bison buffalo, llamas, & many exotic animals on 59 acres. Open 7 days a week, 9am till dark.Train ride, photo ops, feed from car. Admission or tour info: www.grapelanddrivethrusafari.com

Music List: New Music List

Fri, 17 Mar 2006 17:10:02 GMT

New Music List

Willie Nelson: Love Me Like A Song