Monday, March 31, 2008

~ What do you see? ~

DsDesigns3-30-08Deer.jpg picture by 55hockeyfan


Yesterday on the way to Gage's birthday party I saw these cuties in a side lot to one of houses on the road I was driving.  They weren't real close to the road, but I did pull over and get a couple of shots.   Look close..  what do you see?

 

I just wanted to clarify to some of the new comers.  Gage is not my son.  He is my great nephew and 'Bugs' older brother.  My only child is 22 and out on his own.  LOL  I did manage to sneak him in the collage tho :::evil grin:::  Mothers find a way.

 

Today was a half way decent day for a Monday.  Some meetings at work that I think may prove to be productive.  It rained in the morning but as I type this it is 55 degrees.  Now, if the sun would just come out!!  It's suppose to be warmer in the am but then the temps will drop again.  GRRRRRRR  If I see one more flake I will scream!

 

So, did you look long and hard at the picture?  Did you notice?  Did you see what I was talking about?

Hmmmmmm?   Wanna know what it is?  Grass!  There is grass in the picture!!  It's not the greenest, but it is grass!  You can still see some remnants of snow but I see grass!   With any luck tomorrow it will be gone completely........  well except for the mounds on the side of the road... but those too are getting smaller.  YEAH!!!   So did anyone guess that?   LOL

 

Ok......... I'm off to bed.. hope everyone had a great day and I wish you a wonderful Tuesday.  I am so hoping that my new lens arrives tomorrow and is here when I get home from work.  I would love to take a drive before it gets dark and see what I can find.  Keep your fingers crossed.

 

Hugs

~d

Sunday, March 30, 2008

~ Nine ~

GagesBDay2008.jpg picture by 55hockeyfan


Ahhhh yes the little bud is 9... or will be tomorrow.  We gathered at his house for cake and ice cream.  His party for friends was yesterday at the bowling alley.  It was pretty simple this evening...   gifts, cake and ice cream and great conversation.  Just a few random shots from this evening.  He is much harder to do then a little girl... no frilly flowers, glitter, bows or ribbons.  Just something simple. 

 

Temperature right now is 45....... holy shit it's a heat wave!!!  Tomorrow it is supposed to get into the 50's then 60 on Tuesday.  Can it be?  Do you think?  Could the sun come out tomorrow?   LOL  ok it was out somewhat today... and they are calling for rain ..    just hoping spring is here!!!

 

ARGH!  The weekend is over and it's back to work tomorrow.  I hope everyone had a good weekend....  I'm off to bed.  I'll finish up the tag requests tomorrow.

 

Hugs

~d


Tags:

~ Couple More ~

DsDesignsSideyard.jpg picture by 55hockeyfan


Just a few more shots from the last couple days.  The one of the trees is along my side yard.  I took it the day I woke up to a winter wonderland.  The tracks are from my ride yesterday.  I really wanted a different shot but I could not stop at that location because of road work.  Ahhhhh  Spring!  LOL  If the road work is done before the leaves sprout I will go back.  The view will not be the same, to much will be hidden.

 

DsDesignsRailroadTracks.jpg picture by 55hockeyfan

 

Today the temps are in the low 40's.  The snow in the tree branches is completely gone.  A good portion of my grass is exposed.  The mounds of snow along the road are still there in spots, and areas hidden in the shade are still covered.   The week is suppose to warm up and we will have rain.  With any luck at all it was wash away the remaining winter and let spring begin. 

 

I had a few emails and comments regarding the camera I use.  I bought it on sale, most likely because bigger and better came out and it would be discontinued.  It's an Olympus SP-500UZ.  There are newer versions out and those run about $350.  Much cheaper then the SLR camera's so many use.  Don't even ask me, I can't explain them.   I just know that when I went looking they ranged from $800.00 to over $3,000.00.  Ummmm... NOT!!  I suppose if I was taking pictures for a living or to add income regularly I might invest, but for a hobby and family shots it's not going to happen.  Not now anyway.

 

Other then the birthday party later I really have no plans for today.  Hockey is on the background... but it doesn't much matter.  It's not my boys they play later.  Mathematically they are not out yet, but with a loss they will be.  They need to win out and get some help.  :::sigh:::   I will continue to watch the post season... it's an exciting time of year for hockey fans.  I just haven't decided who I will cheer for or who I think will win.  I'm thinking the winner will most likely come from the West.........  

 

Hope everyone has a good day. 

 

Hugs

~d

 

PS  Not completely thrilled with the snag below but it's for all those trolls out there that don't let well enough alone.  The constant hate they spew is tiresome. 

 

                        DsDesignsIwantyoutoleavemealone.gif picture by 55hockeyfan

Saturday, March 29, 2008

~ AOL Community Photo Challenge•AGED-JUDGED ~

aged1.jpg picture by 55hockeyfan


This week's challenge is AGED.  So find something that shows age or take an image & make it vintage or aged. 

Post your challenge entry on your blog, come back here & leave your link in the comment area on either the FUN or JUDGED category.

 

Click on the banner to join the challenge.

 

 

       DsDesignsAgedBarn.jpg picture by 55hockeyfan

 

 

So I didn't wait for the lens, shoot me.  I was out and about today.  Of course I had my camera.  I've been getting into the habit of bringing it with me where ever I go.  As I drove along, what really wasn't a country road, I saw this barn.  I cropped it to get rid of the telephone poles to the left.  I gave it an old paper type look, or tried.  LOL  Burnt edges, sepia tone and crumpled. I softened it up to try and give it a faded look. I am not sure if got the aged effect I was going for, but personally I was happy with it. 

 

There is also an ice cream stand near my house.  It's set up like an old gas station.  I pulled and grabbed a shot of the pumps.  I didn't like the umbrella and electrical wires in the shot, shooting in the other direction gave me a parking lot full of cars and a shit load of buildings.  ::sigh:: figured I would add it anyway since I had it.     

 

  DsDesignsAgedGas.jpg picture by 55hockeyfan

 


~ Tag Request - Gorjuss Grins ~

            DsDesignsGorjussGrinslisajo.gif picture by 55hockeyfan


Expires 3/31 at noon EST

any requests after that time will be ignored.

 





If you'd like your name on this please leave a comment.  Please make sure your email is open to receive mail from me and is a legitimate address.. if there is no email address you will get no tag.  Three strikes and you're out. AOL users need not leave an email unless you want it sent someplace else.

 


Do not alter tags. Remember to always save as a .gif file unless stated otherwise.  Resizing graphics without the proper program can and will distort the images.  Saving incorrectly and resizing is considered altering.  I appreciate you respecting my work as well as all tagger's.   Please do not rename files.

 

Using tags in AOL journals will need an outside storage such as Photobucket to keep animation.  Please see Animation Entry for help.

 

Limit 1. 

 

Graphics are to be used for personal use only. They are not to be used for advertisements or for profit.



 

Thank you for following these terms, and I am so sorry if this comes across as harsh.  Not my intent, but this is suppose to be fun for me too :) 

 

hugs

~d

~ AOL Community Photo Challenge•AGED-FUN ~

aged.jpg picture by 55hockeyfan


 

This week's challenge is AGED.  So find something that shows age or take an image & make it vintage or aged. 

Post your challenge entry on your blog, come back here & leave your link in the comment area on either the FUN or JUDGED category.

 

Click on the banner to join in the fun. 

 

I had this picture from when I visited Niagara Falls over the summer.  Definitely something aged in my opinion.  I added the sepia toning to add to the feel.  Had the topic been old, I'd have done a snow scene.  LOL at this stage of the game ... snow is old!!  I'm ready for spring.

 

DsDesignsBeautifullyAgedNF.jpg picture by 55hockeyfan

 

I am doing this one in the 'fun category' but may come back and do another for the judging category.  I've had my eye on a few scenes nearby but I'm waiting on the lens I ordered to arrive.  If it comes in time........  ::evil grin::  I looked at other cameras but holy shit I can't swing it at this time.  Not for a hobby!  I will stick with my cheapo camera and add to it.

Friday, March 28, 2008

~ WTH?!?! ~

DsDesigns3-28-08.jpg picture by 55hockeyfan


Yeap, I woke up to a winter wonderland.  The heavy wet snow clinging to the branches of the trees.   It was actually very pretty.... but not for the end of March!  I took the shot of the barn next door out my bathroom window.  LOL  It was still fairly early and the morning light was just starting to show.  I kind of like the blue tint, and the pop of the color of the barn.  I'm not real sure about the clarity, but what they hell I like it.  LOL

 

On the way home, about 4 houses before mine I noticed several deer down in the backyard.  I turned my car around and pulled over.  It almost appeared as though they knew I was there.  Two looking straight at me, one had just turned as I shot.  The other....... well I think it's telling me, 'kiss my ass I'm eating.'  LOL

 

DsDesignsDeerOutdoors3-28-08.jpg picture by 55hockeyfan

 

I wanted to share a new journal with you.  I really don't know the person well, but they've visited several times.  I was flattered when he commented stating my pictures inspired him to do something a bit different and get his pictures up on a journal.  I hope you will take a minute and stop by to say hi.


 

I'm glad it's Friday.  I am beat and I'm off to bed.  Tomorrow I get to go shopping for Gage.  His birthday party will be Sunday.  I can't believe he will be 9!!  I hope everyone had a good week and I wish you all a fabulous weekend.

 

Hugs

~d

Thursday, March 27, 2008

~ Tag Request - Butterfly and Bows ~

          DsDesignsButterfliesandBowsmary.gif picture by 55hockeyfan



Expires 3/29 at noon EST

any requests after that time will be ignored.

 





If you'd like your name on this please leave a comment.  Please make sure your email is open to receive mail from me and is a legitimate address.. if there is no email address you will get no tag.  Three strikes and you're out. AOL users need not leave an email unless you want it sent someplace else.

 


Do not alter tags. Remember to always save as a .gif file unless stated otherwise.  Resizing graphics without the proper program can and will distort the images.  Saving incorrectly and resizing is considered altering.  I appreciate you respecting my work as well as all tagger's.   Please do not rename files.

 

Using tags in AOL journals will need an outside storage such as Photobucket to keep animation.  Please see Animation Entry for help.

 

Limit 1. 

 

Graphics are to be used forpersonal use only. They are not to be used for advertisements or for profit.



 

Thank you for following these terms, and I am so sorry if this comes across as harsh.  Not my intent, but this is suppose to be fun for me too :) 

 

hugs

~d

Wednesday, March 26, 2008

~ Tag Request - I'm a Dreamer ~

   DsDesignsImaDreamerindigo.gif picture by 55hockeyfan



Expires 3/28 at noon EST

any requests after that time will be ignored.





If you'd like your name on this please leave a comment.  Please make sure your email is open to receive mail from me and is a legitimate address.. if there is no email address you will get no tag.  Three strikes and you're out. AOL users need not leave an email unless you want it sent someplace else.

 


Do not alter tags. Remember to always save as a .gif file unless stated otherwise.  Resizing graphics without the proper program can and will distort the images.  Saving incorrectly and resizing is considered altering.  I appreciate you respecting my work as well as all tagger's.   Please do not rename files.

 

Using tags in AOL journals will need an outside storage such as Photobucket to keep animation.  Please see Animation Entry for help.

 

Limit 1. 

 

Graphics are to be used for personal use only. They are not to be used for advertisements or for profit.



 

Thank you for following these terms, and I am so sorry if this comes across as harsh.  Not my intent, but this is suppose to be fun for me too :) 

 

hugs

~d

~ Meltdown ~

Meltdown3-25-08.jpg picture by 55hockeyfan


:::sigh:::  You'd think by Jochen Hecht's posture the picture was taken after the game, but it wasn't.  It was pre-game warm-up.  I should have known!!  My nephew and I got to the arena last night and there was an excitement in the air.  Nervous excitement.  With only a few games left the boys needed a win to climb back into the hunt for the playoffs.   Our seats were right behind the goal and the netting hanging from ceiling to glass to protect the fans was a hindrance for picture taking.  I knew that, I've sat here before.  I took my camera anyway.  With each other game I attended I had the handy camera and we won.  How could I break that routine?  I took pictures in pre-game when I was able to move from my seat.  I took the opening face-off, netting and all.  Then I took some shots of Ryan Miller when he was at our end of the rink. 

 

The first period ended with Ottawa up 1-0.  The boys played hard and Miller kept them in the game.   With only a few minutes left in the second period Derek Roy opened the scoring with a goal of his own to tie the game.  Whuuuu Huuu the crowd went nuts.  We are still in it.  There is hope, faith....  the third period started and less then 3 minutes in Roy scores again.  I thought the roof would blow off the arena.  Before folks could get comfy in their seats Pominville scores and gives the boys a 3-1 lead.   They played hard for a bit then all of a sudden it happened.  They went into a shell.  They lost momentum.  They weren't going for the jugular, but rather sat back and tried to protect the lead.  Mistake number 1!!   Mistake number 2 came with about 8 minutes left in the game.  We are on the power play.  A miss read, a crappy pass, all the guys in the offensive zone the Senators get the puck.  They rush down the ice and wham, the score is 3-2.  The rest seems to be a blur.  The boys stopped trying, they imploded, a complete meltdown.  I've heard the word fragile and last night was a perfect example.  They lost momentum and couldn't get it back.  They stopped believing even though the fans cheered them on.  Two minutes later the score is tied, 4 minutes later they are losing.  It was horrible.  I've never seen such a thing.  In 8 minutes Ottawa scored 5 unanswered goals and when the buzzer went the boys lost 6-3. 

 

I didn't expect the boys to finish first in the league, I didn't even figure they'd finish first in the division, and I sure as hell didn't figure this.  With 6 games left we are on the outside looking in and all looks dismal here.  A bleak time.   Being the realist I am I can't fathom them climbing in.  There is something missing.  It's been missing since spring last season.  I won't for one minute give into the belief that is the fact that some players are missing.  Sure it didn't help not having them, but it didn't help having them either.  A change needed?  I don't know.  We have one of the youngest teams by age, but not by experience.  Did it catch up to them?   Did long back to back seasons?   Having our goalie play over 75 games cause him to have a mental break downs?  Injuries?  Leadership?  Management? The list goes on.  I will cheer my boys until the day I die, but last night was a sad night.  Giving into the idea that my boys will be playing golf instead of hockey come April was a kick in the teeth.   GRRRRR

 

This morning I woke up with a bit of an ache, but I will live.  It's a game right?   I got several emails, cards, and comments wishing me a Happy Birthday... Thank you!!  I had several calls and lots of little things at work.  We celebrated this morning with carrot cake.  YUM!  My boss bought two.  One for work one for home.  How cool is that?  Had a great lunch and my sister treated me to dinner.  S'getti Parm.  Ohhhhhhhh the calories... but it was great and I am stuffed!   More cards, more emails, more calls.  It was awesome.   I will admit it felt so weirdnot getting the call my sister.  A good part of the day I kept expecting the call.  She always called.  She never forgot.  Not long ago my phone rang again and I thought 'there she is'  How selfish is that?  ::wiping tear::  I wish this ache would go away......

 

All in all my day was great.  My son is working so we will do something another night.  Again, thank you for all the good wishes they are so appreciated. 

 

Hugs

~d

Monday, March 24, 2008

~ Tag Request - Mandy's Garden ~

       DsDesignsMandysGardenbridgett.gif picture by 55hockeyfan



LOL  I couldn't resist this..... 

Expires 3/26 at noon EST

any requests after that time will be ignored.

 

I will be going to the hockey game tomorrow night, so tags will be sent out a little bit later then usual. 

 



If you'd like your name on this please leave a comment.  Please make sure your email is open to receive mail from me and is a legitimate address.. if there is no email address you will get no tag.  Three strikes and you're out. AOL users need not leave an email unless you want it sent someplace else.

 


Do not alter tags. Remember to always save as a .gif file unless stated otherwise.  Resizing graphics without the proper program can and will distort the images.  Saving incorrectly and resizing is considered altering.  I appreciate you respecting my work as well as all tagger's.   Please do not rename files.

 

Using tags in AOL journals will need an outside storage such as Photobucket to keep animation.  Please see Animation Entry for help.

 

Limit 1. 

 

Graphics are to be used for personal use only. They are not to be used for advertisements or for profit.



 

Thank you for following these terms, and I am so sorry if this comes across as harsh.  Not my intent, but this is suppose to be fun for me too :) 

 

hugs

~d

Sunday, March 23, 2008

~ Fabulous Day ~

Easter12008.jpg picture by 55hockeyfan


And now it's over.   We all got to my sisters about 11 and it wasn't long before the food was displayed and we ate.  Egg dishes, polish sausage, coffee cake, fruit salad, baked ham, cinnamon raisin strata it seemed like the choices were endless.  I will tell you they were delicious!!  Family gathered with stories and laughs.   The kids enjoyed their treats a great deal.

 

Easter2008.jpg picture by 55hockeyfan

 

The day was relaxing and fun.  We spent hours and hours over the coffee table in the living room putting a puzzle together.  On more then one occasion I had to walk away as my head began to hurt.  My eyes were blurred.  It wasn't done when I left but there isn't much left to do.  If I can get there when it's finished and before it comes down I will snap a shot.  LOL  It was a bit intense.

 

We never got the snow they called for.  It was chilly but the sky was blue and the sun was out.  YEAH!  I am hoping this means we are done.  Could it be?  For real?  I'm hoping tomorrow is just as nice.  I will be taking the day off.  Work gives us a day off for our birthday and I decided to use mine a couple days early to make a long weekend.   My car needs to be inspected and I will make the jaunt to do so.  I have plans of taking my camera and seeing if I can get some shots.  We'll see.  Oh Lisa, as I was leaving the  house this morning my neighbor handed me my mail.  Thank you so very much for the birthday card.  You are a gem and I love ya!!

 

I do hope everyone had a grand day however you spent it.

 

Hugs

~d


Tags:

Saturday, March 22, 2008

~ Tag Request - Simple Spring ~

DsDesignsSpringjan.gif picture by 55hockeyfan


Expires 3/24 at noon EST

any requests after that time will be ignored.

 



If you'd like your name on this please leave a comment.  Please make sure your email is open to receive mail from me and is a legitimate address.. if there is no email address you will get no tag.  Three strikes and you're out. AOL users need not leave an email unless you want it sent someplace else.

 


Do not alter tags. Remember to always save as a .gif file unless stated otherwise.  Resizing graphics without the proper program can and will distort the images.  Saving incorrectly and resizing is considered altering.  I appreciate you respecting my work as well as all tagger's.   Please do not rename files.

 

Using tags in AOL journals will need an outside storage such as Photobucket to keep animation.  Please see Animation Entry for help.

 

Limit 1. 

 

Graphics are to be used forpersonal use only. They are not to be used for advertisements or for profit.



 

Thank you for following these terms, and I am so sorry if this comes across as harsh.  Not my intent, but this is suppose to be fun for me too :) 

 

hugs

~d

~ Evening ~

   DsDesignsEaster.gif picture by 55hockeyfan


I hope everyone had a fabulous Saturday!!  My day was filled with this and that.  This evening my house is filled with luscious smells of what will be part of brunch tomorrow.  My sister has started preparing a few things and let me tell you my tummy is growling in anticipation.  Sausage for the egg dish has been browned and the butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon mixture has been melted and poured over the raisin bread to sit in the fridge overnight. 

 

Tomorrow the family with gather at my sisters for brunch and celebration.  I'm looking forward to it.  My son and his girlfriend will make an appearance but they have dinner with her grandmother at 1 so they won't be around long. 

 

I hope everyone enjoys their Sunday, celebrating or not.  Wishing you all a very Happy Easter.

 

Hugs

~d

~ Tag Request - Gorjuss Farm ~

     DsDesignsGorjussFarmlori.gif picture by 55hockeyfan


Expires 3/24 at noon EST

any requests after that time will be ignored.

 



If you'd like your name on this please leave a comment.  Please make sure your email is open to receive mail from me and is a legitimate address.. if there is no email address you will get no tag.  Three strikes and you're out. AOL users need not leave an email unless you want it sent someplace else.

 


Do not alter tags. Remember to always save as a .gif file unless stated otherwise.  Resizing graphics without the proper program can and will distort the images.  Saving incorrectly and resizing is considered altering.  I appreciate you respecting my work as well as all tagger's.   Please do not rename files.

 

Using tags in AOL journals will need an outside storage such as Photobucket to keep animation.  Please see Animation Entry for help.

 

Limit 1. 

 

Graphics are to be used forpersonal use only. They are not to be used for advertisements or for profit.



 

Thank you for following these terms, and I am so sorry if this comes across as harsh.  Not my intent, but this is suppose to be fun for me too :) 

 

hugs

~d

Friday, March 21, 2008

~ Tag Request - Gorjuss Easter ~

DsDesignsGorjussEasterlinda.gif picture by 55hockeyfan


Wishing you all a very Happy Easter!!

 

Nothing like waiting until the last minute, and obviously it will not be available long.  Expires 3/22 at 8pm EST

any requests after that time will be ignored.

 



If you'd like your name on this please leave a comment.  Please make sure your email is open to receive mail from me and is a legitimate address.. if there is no email address you will get no tag.  Three strikes and you're out. AOL users need not leave an email unless you want it sent someplace else.

 


Do not alter tags. Remember to always save as a .gif file unless stated otherwise.  Resizing graphics without the proper program can and will distort the images.  Saving incorrectly and resizing is considered altering.  I appreciate you respecting my work as well as all tagger's.   Please do not rename files.

 

Using tags in AOL journals will need an outside storage such as Photobucket to keep animation.  Please see Animation Entry for help.

 

Limit 1. 

 

Graphics are to be used forpersonal use only. They are not to be used for advertisements or for profit.



 

Thank you for following these terms, and I am so sorry if this comes across as harsh.  Not my intent, but this is suppose to be fun for me too :) 

 

hugs

~d

Thursday, March 20, 2008

~ Tag Request - Walk in the Rain - SAC ~

    DsDesignsWalkintheRainmarina.gif picture by 55hockeyfan





Expires 3/22 at noon EST

any requests after that time will be ignored.

 



If you'd like your name on this please leave a comment.  Please make sure your email is open to receive mail from me and is a legitimate address.. if there is no email address you will get no tag.  Three strikes and you're out. AOL users need not leave an email unless you want it sent someplace else.

 


Do not alter tags. Remember to always save as a .gif file unless stated otherwise.  Resizing graphics without the proper program can and will distort the images.  Saving incorrectly and resizing is considered altering.  I appreciate you respecting my work as well as all tagger's.   Please do not rename files.

 

Using tags in AOL journals will need an outside storage such as Photobucket to keep animation.  Please see Animation Entry for help.

 

Limit 1. 

 

Graphics are to be used forpersonal use only. They are not to be used for advertisements or for profit.



 

Thank you for following these terms, and I am so sorry if this comes across as harsh.  Not my intent, but this is suppose to be fun for me too :) 

 

hugs

~d

~ AOL Community Photo Challenge - Green ~

DsDesignsGreenBuds.jpg picture by 55hockeyfan





(Deadline: The evening of Friday, March 21st)

 

They say that on St. Patrick's Day, the whole world is Irish. Well, you don't have to be Irish to find some green in your world. Whether it's a St. Paddy's Day parade, your aunt's green scarf or spring blossoms, shoot something green this week and share it with us.

 

Ok well you all know I went searching for green... since we are still covered in snow the likelihood of that happening is nil.  I went through my picture files and found a few.  I was amazed.  These are old... very old.  Not even taken with the camera I have now... but they are green.   I had a helluva time deciding which to place first in the entry and use for the challenge.  :::sigh::: but I had to make a choice.  Ok, ok... so I got some outside influences :)~ 

 

I'm posting later then usual, but there is still time if you want to play along.  Check it out

 

DsDesignsGreen-bullfrog.jpg picture by 55hockeyfan

 

 

            DsDesignsGreenLilypad.jpg picture by 55hockeyfan

~ Tag Request - Another Gorjuss Spring ~

              DsDesignsGorjussSpring2taraleigh.gif picture by 55hockeyfan





Expires 3/22 at noon EST

any requests after that time will be ignored.

 



If you'd like your name on this please leave a comment.  Please make sure your email is open to receive mail from me and is a legitimate address.. if there is no email address you will get no tag.  Three strikes and you're out. AOL users need not leave an email unless you want it sent someplace else.

 


Do not alter tags. Remember to always save as a .gif file unless stated otherwise.  Resizing graphics without the proper program can and will distort the images.  Saving incorrectly and resizing is considered altering.  I appreciate you respecting my work as well as all tagger's.   Please do not rename files.

 

Using tags in AOL journals will need an outside storage such as Photobucket to keep animation.  Please see Animation Entry for help.

 

Limit 1. 

 

Graphics are to be used for personal use only. They are not to be used for advertisements or for profit.



 

Thank you for following these terms, and I am so sorry if this comes across as harsh.  Not my intent, but this is suppose to be fun for me too :) 

 

hugs

~d

~ Where ~

 DsDesignsParadise.gif picture by 55hockeyfan


Where have I been?  LOL now don't I wish I was in paradise!   Of course I do, but not today... nor have I been there over the last few days.  I've been here, in cold and snowy Western New York.  I think I've been in and out of consciousness.  I've been going thru the motions of day to day life.  Working everyday and doing what had to be done.  To be honest when the work day was over I had no desire to be here and write.  I had no ambition to do graphics.  I'd get home, change into sweats or something equally as comfy and veg.  I'd log on, read mail, try to read journals, but I just couldn't keep my focus or concentrate on many of the reads.  Sorry.  It was me not you.  I thought it unfair to pretend so a lot of the times I didn't comment.  But I swear to you I did try.  I've missed you all and hope this entire funk is on it's way out. 

 

We've had some changes at work.  On Friday we started an internal move.  Changing cubicles, area's in the office each department held.  I started packing my desk and belongings around 3 when my phone was messed up, died, or reconfigured.  Holy shit, do you know how much stuff I've gathered in the 15 years I was there?!?!  Can you say garbage bags galore?  Can you say dust??  The movement of walls, desks, wires, after laying dormant for so several years stirred up all kinds of dust and who knows what else.   The cleaning company does not move items, and let me tell you it was obvious!!  I left for the day and couldn't wait to get in the shower.  I felt gross!   The crap I inhaled, OMG!!  

 

Monday was a trip.  When I arrived at work my phone was still not operating.  Oh the joy!  All I could think was, thank God I was leaving early.  I'd had a dull headache for days and sitting pretending to work while things were being changed around me was not helping.  I set up my desk, put things in the proper place and watched the clock.  YEAH!  It was time to go.  I got out in the fresh air and felt a bit better.  I picked up my son and we went shopping.  We so lucked out.  He found what he wanted at the first store we stopped at.  A couple pair of shorts, t-shirts, and new socks.  He was a happy camper and so was I.  At this point my headache had come back and my throat felt like sandpaper.  I dropped him off and went home to bed.  

 

Tuesday I forced myself to work.  It was a long day and the later it got the worse I felt.  (WARNING: gross part of story, you may want to skip it)  Wednesday the same thing.  I stopped at the store and bought tea bags and some water to help sooth my throat while at work.  I was driving along minding my own business when all of a sudden my mouth was full of puke.  No warning, just there.  I scrambled to empty the bag, quickly searched for holes or breaks in the plastic.  Then I help it up to my mouth as I drove, spitting and finish the job in the bag.  Why didn't I pull over?  I couldn't I was in the wrong lane and no time.  I thought about turning around and just going home but at that point I felt better.  So there I am, driving to work holding a bag of puke.  Feeling better did not last long and I left a bit early.   I pretty much slept away the day.  Today I decided to stay home.  Throat burns and feels raw.  My sinuses causing my head to pound.  So far all is clear so I don't think it's an infection, I actually think it might have something to do with the move.   A day without talking will no doubt do me good, or I am hoping so.  I still have some nasal drip, but I was able to eat some soup.   I feel pretty good except for the throat.  Let's hope this goes away, like NOW!

 

Oh, Happy Spring!!!   Yeah... that's right it is the first day of spring.  Can someone tell Mother Nature?  It snowed here last night.  Nothing major and the roads are just wet, but it was snow none the less.  What had melted or the rain had washed away is back.  I actually got excited when I started to see grass.  So much for that!!!   The one good thing about it.  The dirty soot covered piles along the side of the road are now covered in a fresh white blanket. 

 

What I thought was going to be a quick update turned into a short story, sorry.  I do hope you all are doing well.  I hope that spring really arrived in your neck of the woods.   Thanks for the good wishes, mails and comments of concern.  I will try to be better.  I swear.

 

Hugs

~d

 

PS  On a real happy note congrats to Gaz and Phil on their big day!!!

Sunday, March 16, 2008

~ Went Looking For ~

  DsDesignsBGarden2.jpg picture by 55hockeyfan

 

I got up this morning and it was snowing.  Oh the joy of winters in Buffalo.  Actually it was a pretty snow.  As pretty as it can be in mid March.  The sky was a vibrant blue with clouds scattered.  The flakes were the size of quarters and reminded me of the first sign of winter and how we all ewww and ahhh at the first flakes.  It didn't stick but it fell gracefully from the sky.

 

DsDesignsBGarden.jpg picture by 55hockeyfan

 

 

I thought for a split second about going downtown for the parade, but my heart wasn't in it.  I didn't feel like dealing with the drunken crowds.   I decided I would take a ride and look for green.  Yes, I said green even though I still have snow on the ground.   I took a ride to the Botanical Garden's and thought I would walk around inside with the color and warmth.  I took the drive but never once thought about it being Palm Sunday and that the crowds there would be sober, but crowds just the same.  Parking was a joke so I just drove through the park.  I pulled over a few times and grabbed some shots.   I found the contrast of the snow, bare trees, shadows, clouds, and the blue sky interesting.  Maybe you won't, but I figured I would post anyway. 

 

DsDesignsBGarden1.jpg picture by 55hockeyfan

 

 

When I left the park I was only a block or two from the cemetery.  I stopped at local store and bought a green carnation.  My sister was a lover of St. Patrick's Day and on more then one occasion we made the trip to the parade.  Standing in the wind and cold to celebrate.   I wanted her to know I remembered.   I found the spot and sat in my car in tears.  It took a few minutes to get out.  Was I ready?  I walked over and sobbed.  I took my glove and wiped down the stone.  I don't think it was dirty, I think it was more I wanted to touch her.  Maybe I was looking for comfort.  I prayed, I talked to her.  I broke the stem of the flower and inserted in the crack.  As I stood there with tears in my eyes the trees and shrubs behind me reflected.  I went back to my car to get my camera.  The shot does not do the reflection justice, not one bit, but I think you can see some of what I saw.   It's in no way meant to be morbid.  A sign of life in the distance I guess.  I miss her terribly but know she is happy, healthy, and looking down on us.  Miss you so much Pat!!

 

DsDesignsStPattys.jpg picture by 55hockeyfan

 

 

The end of the week and weekend were good.  Busy and laid back at the same time.  Dinner with my son on Saturday was a joy.  After we ate I went back to their place and hung out for a few hours.  It was nice relaxing and talking of plans and just everyday events.  I talk to him on the phone regularly but this was so much nicer.  I miss hanging out with him.  Tomorrow we will go shopping for birthday gifts.  That should be fun.  LOL  He so loves to shop with his mother, NOT! 

 

Hope everyone is doing good.  The weekend flew by and it's off to bed for me.  Hugs to all of you.

 

~d

Wednesday, March 12, 2008

~ Tag Request - Raindrops ~

DsDesignsRaindropscarolyn.gif picture by 55hockeyfan





Expires 3/14 at noon EST

any requests after that time will be ignored.

 



If you'd like your name on this please leave a comment.  Please make sure your email is open to receive mail from me and is a legitimate address.. if there is no email address you will get no tag.  Three strikes and you're out. AOL users need not leave an email unless you want it sent someplace else.

 


Do not alter tags. Remember to always save as a .gif file unless stated otherwise.  Resizing graphics without the proper program can and will distort the images.  Saving incorrectly and resizing is considered altering.  I appreciate you respecting my work as well as all tagger's.   Please do not rename files.

 

Using tags in AOL journals will need an outside storage such as Photobucket to keep animation.  Please see Animation Entry for help.

 

Limit 1. 

 

Graphics are to be used for personal use only. They are not to be used for advertisements or for profit.



 

Thank you for following these terms, and I am so sorry if this comes across as harsh.  Not my intent, but this is suppose to be fun for me too :) 

 

hugs

~d

~ Hello ~

                DsDesignsHello-arm-.gif picture by 55hockeyfan


Well, I hope everyone is doing good.  Mid-week and things should be good.  ARGH!!!  I only wish.  I'm crabby.  LOL  Work has been good... nothing wrong there.   Ohhhh I suppose if I searched hard enough I could find something, but really it's good.  

 

If you live in the US, and maybe anywhere, you've no doubt heard about Spitzer, the Governor of New York.   Ahh... let me rephrase that, the X- Governor of NY.  He resigned today.   I am not one to normally talk politics in this forum.  It can be overbearing, and we all have opinions.  Some go to the far out extreme and can actually ram it down your throat.  Not my style.  But I've heard enough about this story.  Once again sex and political figures are brought to the forefront for indiscretions.   It's tiring.   To say nothing about how it brings to light that politicians, all of them, think they are above the law.  Spitzer was hard nosed when he was the Attorney General of the State, and this seems to have surprised everyone.  HA!  Every one has skeletons in the closet.  Some worse then others.  As they campaign for the next election, remember that.  Take things as you see fit.  If it's out there don't for a minute think the other candidate is the only person who wants to bring it to light.  It's out there and is what it is.  I'm disgusted!  'Nuff said.

 

Ohhhhhh my boys.  I can't even begin to say how disgusted I am with them.  Starting last year before the playoffs they've gotten this almost 'I don't care attitude.'   You can blame it on the player losses in the off season, but they were here when it started.   You can blame it on management for not overpaying, you can blame it on the coach.   At the end of the day the players have to show up and give an effort.  Act as though they care.  Act like they want it.  Play like the want it.   They haven't.   We stand on the outside looking in with very few games left.  I will cheer them on until the bitter end but the realist in me is telling me they will be making an early tee time this year.  As it stands we have 3 defensemen when we should have 6 because of injuries (some from extremely cheap shots.  Enjoy the suspension Laraque!).  I'm disgusted!  'Nuff said

 

Didn't do dinner with the kid tonight, but I really wasn't expecting to.  We will do it this weekend and do some shopping for gifts.  He's looking for summer clothes for the upcoming vacation to Disney.  Mom will oblige.  I did pass on the wishes and he was flattered and said thanks. 

 

Ok.... 'nuff said tonight.   Have a great Thursday everyone.

 

Hugs

~d

Tuesday, March 11, 2008

~ Ran out of Time ~

DsDesignsCityStreet3-11-08.jpg picture by 55hockeyfan

 

I have no idea where the evening went.  All I know is I am making an honest effort to get to bed earlier and my time has run out.  I did not finish all the requests tonight, but rest assured you will get them.

 

I took my camera to work today and while on break I snapped a couple shots.  The trees were covered with a frost this morning.   I know that sounds odd with all the snow we had, but it wasn't really ice and it wasn't really snow.  They were just white.  I stood on the street behind my office and took the picture.  I think I lost some of the effect as it was gorgeous to the naked eye.  It also gives you feel for what some of the city streets look like.  There is no off street parking for many and on this street they allow parking on both sides.  As you can see the plow can not get thru to get a clear shot of the entire street, leaving mounds and a mess around cars.  Not at all pretty... but hey it's flat!  LOL

 

This year the company picnic table didn't make it in doors.  I thought the layers looked cool.  Almost like frosting on a cake.  You can see the snow, then a layer of ice, then snow.  You thought I was kidding when I said I had it all.   :)

 

DsDesignsLayersofWinter3-11-08.jpg picture by 55hockeyfan

 

Lastly, the fire escape on the building next door.  The icicles looked somewhat lonely hanging there.  I just thought it was different.  Shoot me. 

 

        DsDesignsFireEscape3-11-08.jpg picture by 55hockeyfan

 

Hope everyone had a great day.   Tomorrow is my son's 22 birthday.  Hard to believe my baby is so grown up.  I am not sure if we will do dinner tomorrow or not.  Ya know, the girlfriend and him might want to be alone.  Either way we will catch up to celebrate.   Will most likely be a double celebration as my birthday is only a couple weeks away.  EEEEEEEEEEKKKKKKKK  Can I still say I'm only 29?  LOL 

 

Well I'm off to bed...  gotta keep the promise to myself.  Have a great hump day all!

 

Hugs

~d

Tuesday, March 4, 2008

~ Thanks for the Memories ~

     DsDesignsBrett.jpg picture by 55hockeyfan


One of the greats retired today.  I was shocked and saddened by the news.  Though I am a Bills fan through and through I've always loved Brett.  Character and class on and off the field.   Thanks for the memories Brett..... and good luck in whatever you decide to do.   Still have Deanna in my thoughts and prayers.  You are both warriors!!

Monday, March 3, 2008

~ Tag Request - All you Need - Gorjuss ~

       DsDesignsAllyouNeedjeannette.gif picture by 55hockeyfan



If you are requesting this tag please read the entry first

I don't want to come across as a b$tch... and I hope you all understand. 

 

Expires 3/5 at noon EST

any requests after that time will be ignored.

 



If you'd like your name on this please leave a comment.  Please make sure your email is open to receive mail from me and is a legitimate address.. if there is no email address you will get no tag.  Three strikes and you're out. AOL users need not leave an email unless you want it sent someplace else.

 


Do not alter tags. Remember to always save as a .gif file unless stated otherwise.  Resizing graphics without the proper program can and will distort the images.  Saving incorrectly and resizing is considered altering.  I appreciate you respecting my work as well as all tagger's.   Please do not rename files.

 

Using tags in AOL journals will need an outside storage such as Photobucket to keep animation.  Please see Animation Entry for help.

 

Limit 1. 

 

Graphics are to be used for personal use only. They are not to be used for advertisements or for profit.



 

Thank you for following these terms, and I am so sorry if this comes across as harsh.  Not my intent, but this is suppose to be fun for me too :) 

 

hugs

~d

~ Sweet Attitude ~

        DsDesignsSweetLittleAttitude.gif picture by 55hockeyfan


What the hell am I doing?  Break... not a break....   Good gawd.... if I only knew!!  I was hurt, angry, and tired when I posted.  Maybe it was a true example of the winter blues.  I don't know.. nor do I know what I'm doing now.  LOL   I just know I missed everyone....

 

I want to be clear it wasn't just my troll, tho the more I see, the scarier it gets.  It was more a combination of things.  Maybe my strength, as little as I have, reached a breaking point and I had to step away.  Maybe I still do, maybe I still will.   Does that sound like someone thinking clearly?  Not to me, but know what?   I don't think I care.  I think I will go on with a sweet little attitude and just be me.   Maybe I will stop trying so hard to please everyone, and just please me.  Hmmm... as I wrote that, it sounded so selfish... more then I intended.  I just hope it can be taken in the context it was meant, even if my wording just plain sucks.   Folks manipulating, twisting, and taking out of context things said or events that occurred to fit just their agenda is old.  Time could be better spent.  With that said, I will be spending my time a bit differently too.  How?  I haven't decided yet.  LOL  What, did you think since I started this entry I had an epiphany?   Not on your life.  Just giving a fair warning.  :)

 

Ahhhh.... so what did I do while not doing entries?  Relaxed, all that domesticated stuff (eeewww), watched TV.  Yes me... and TV... do you know there isn't shit on!?!?  And of course played in PSP.  Now, what the hell.  I have tags on my PC and they are sitting there.  Any idea what I might do with them? 

 

Ok, being an ass, but having fun.   Thanks to all of you... you just plain ROCK!

 

Hugs

~d


Tags:

AOL Community Photo Challenge - March into Spring {Advanced}

8inchbanner.jpg picture by 55hockeyfan


This week's challenge is MARCH INTO SPRING...Is spring popping up in your neighborhood? Daffodils and crocuses popping up through the snow? However spring is arriving (or did in the past, if you're still snowbound), share it with us!

 

I wasn't going to do this one, but a friend talked me into it.  Not because I think I'll win, and surely that wasn't what they thought either..... but I took the shot so I'm sharing :)

 

Up until this weekend it had been cold and I had mounds of snow on the ground.  Nothing even close to 'March into Spring' appeared.  I have pictures of flowers, of creeks, all kinds of things, but they are old and most likely were really not taken in spring anyway.  Then on Sunday the temps hit the 30's.  Yes, down right balmy here.  As I came into the house I was dripped on by an icicle hanging off the garage.  I wanted to look up but all that came to mind was Ralphy in the Christmas Story.  His fabricated story of an icicle falling off the house and breaking his glasses.  (If you've never seen the movie, make it a must see during the holidays.  It's a hoot!)  Anyway, I came in the house and wondered if I could actually capture a shot of the drop falling.  What better form of spring then to see the ice actually melting?  It took several attempts but finally I was able to get it.  :::patting self on back:::  Just ignore the dirty soffit and fascia of the garage.  Eewwww  Today the temps hit low to mid 60's.   Can you say heat wave?  Still snow, and the mounds on the side of the roads are black with soot and have revealed garbage that has been thrown about.  Disgusting!!!  No worries, they are calling for cold temps and more snow so it will be covered again by Wed.   I really wish Spring was Marching in!!!

 

Hope you'll click on the link and either join in or visit the others that already have.   Good Luck to all

 

~d

 

                                    DsDesignssignsofSpring.jpg picture by 55hockeyfan