Barb's Home On The Web

The Day The Friendship Died.....

2009-05-04T22:28:00.003-04:00

I have always been honest with myself, the people I meet, and get close with. I always try to be as fourth coming as I can, as loving as I can, as supportive as I can.

I cannot imagine hurting someone close to me, yes, it has happend, and I have owned up to it. I have torn myself up inside thinking of how "I" effects the people in my life.

I lost the best friend I ever had yesterday. After a 25 year friendship it is now over. We have had our lumps before....but somehow we got through them.

Our friendship wasn't perfect. We had to learn to become "long distance" friends, sending audio tapes back and fourth, and updating each other on our latest news.

The hard part was seeing each other again, and noticing the changes, the growing up we had done, and literally becoming friends all over again.

I thought we just got into a good swing. When she came to visit she stayed in a hotel. That way we wouldn't get on each others nerves by being together 24/7.

I thought it worked well. The last time I saw her, was a nice trip, a learning experience, an end. I thought we got along really well, she smoked my cigarettes, we tried to help a mutual friend together....we talked.

I did things I would ONLY do for a good friend. I went to strangers homes to locate a guy, I put up with someone I let go of years ago. I did this for her. My best friend.

I never "faked" who I was. My personality is what it is. The only thing about me that I held back was my happiness. I feel to laid back. I was never completely happy.

I am sorry my friend if I hurt you. I NEVER lied to you. I always told you who I was, and now that I am taking the steps to bring that person out, I wish you were here for the ride. I wish you were here to really know me. I am sorry you feel it is NOT worth your while.

I am sorry you feel you must explain or label me upon introductions. I am sorry I wasn't the kind of friend I should have been, a friend that you would keep for life.

I never lost a friend that I loved.
I never confided so much in one person before.
I am completely Devastated that your gone.
I've cried, I will cry more, and I will also pray that whatever hurt I caused you will soon leave you for happiness in its place.

Your Former Best Friend.

Save Me From MYSELF!!

2009-04-16T17:08:00.006-04:00

My name is Barbara Del Piano and I am addicted to Facebook.
The first step in my recovery is admitting I have a problem.
I downloaded an application called "YoVille", and I cannot seem to leave it.
This reminds me of "The Stepford wives", or "Pleasantville".
My life in YoVille is a sweet life.
I have an "Avatar" (a little version of "me") that I named "Bobbie"....

Okay, I am so addicted I have 2 Avatars! One is Bobbie and one is the male version of me that I named "Angelo". (I told ya I had it bad!)

While in YoVille, you collect your paychecks at the Widget Factory every 6 hours. You get your own apartment, and can upgrade to a house! You can purchase new clothes, furniture,rugs,food,drink, even pets! (I have 2 Yorkies: Daphane and Scooter!)

I bought a gazebo for my yard, a pool table for my game room, and I frequently have Yard Sales, and trade with others!

I GOT IT BAD I TELL YA!!

On the other hand, I am now officially writing for a magazine called "Kritter Kronickles". As a matter of fact, they asked me to write the feature story for their May issue. My bearded dragon Angel Lynn will grace the front cover, and back inside cover! I am blessed, honored and THRILLED!

Penny..... Penny is taking one day at a time, she still has trouble swallowing, and choking. I am not happy with this at all. Penny goes back to see her surgeon on April 20th, 2009. So we will see what he has to say.

I am taking Penny for a neck/back xray on Monday about 2 hours BEFORE her surgeon appointment, that way they can get a status on how she is doing.

I cannot convey how disappointed I am with her side of the family. No get well cards. NOTHING. Not to mention a blatent disregard and lack of respect for her as a family member.

I THANK GOD for Suzanne, and my parents & sister & neice, Janice and Marie, Frankie and even our Avon customers who have shown an abundance of care, love and concern to Penny.

I cannot image my life without my family.
I cannot imagine growing up with a brother and not being invited to his wedding.
I cannot imagine such disregard for a human being no less family.

Since the death of Penny's father, things have gotten TERRIBLE.
Penny's so called Step Mother has been deaf on hearing ANYTHING Penny says, disregarding EVERYTHING. I never met anyone who proclaims to be "of God" and then totally shuts out a family member. I am saddend. My heart hurts for Penny, and yet I am so honored with the AWESOME people in our lives that are TRULY of God.

**Remember** "God Loves ALL of his children, embraces ALL of his children, an ONLY God can Judge what is a sin, not the MEN who wrote the Bible". B.A. Del Piano 2009

P.S. People tend to forget that MEN wrote the Bible NOT GOD, and it is THEIR account of what happend, to the best that THEY COULD REMEMBER!

I See You

2009-03-22T19:39:00.004-04:00

Yup....It's official. I just got my glasses.

I need to wear these all the time.

HAPPY 40's!

I never wore glasses before, but now....BAM!

Penny's Birthday was on the 19th of March.

Despite the neck brace and bone fuser that we must wear,

we had a nice time. I got Penny a beautiful Thomas Kinkade Mirror that she had seen a few months back.

The dogs, cats, and bearded dragons got their mommy a $50.00 gift certificate to the local Christian store! Yeah!! So now, Penny can shop and have fun!

The highlight of the day was when Penny her mom and I went to dinner at The Olive Garden. We had such a nice relaxing time. The food was AWESOME!!

**Remember** "Love is unconditional" B.A. Del Piano 2009

My Product Reviews....Penny and Rocky....

2009-03-13T01:41:00.008-04:00

Barb's Product Reviews:

There seems to be a new kick, and a GREAT combo! Lavender and chamomile. I love the two scents! Now here is something else I LOVE. Xtra Laundry Detergent: Lavender and Vanilla scented. No, I am not doing a commercial! I always used Xtra, but now that they came out with the Lavender and Vanilla combo, it's all I will use. (P.S. IT'S CHEAP!!) Your clothes will smell AWESOME!!

Not so GRATE!

So you think sand paper is bad? I am not to sure who invented this next product, BUTT I am sure it only comes in handy if used as a torture devise!

You have heard of the Great Wall Of China....well, look out, here is the competition! The GRATE Roll Of Pain. Guaranteed to get rid of bottom blemishes and unwanted hemorrhoids....by way of torture!

Now some news on the home front....

Rocky went to see the vet for a check up on Thursday, and he is looking GREAT! The wire in his jaw held the skin and muscle in place! Rocks still needs to wear his E-Collar, and he goes back to the vet next Friday.

Our AWESOME Neighbors gave Penny and Rocky a care package to "Get Well". Penny got chocolate covered pretzels (yummerz!) and Rocky got cool toys!

Penny has been getting better with each day.....

However she is still battling swallowing correctly.We had a scare this morning when I got up, I checked on her, and she had foam coming from her mouth. This scared the hell out of me.

Penny called the surgeon and they recommended 48 hours of soft foods, like jello, pudding,ice cream....they told us that the esophogus, and voice box were moved aside during her almost 3 hour operation. Those chords could be very swollen still, thus the hard time.

We go to see the surgeon next Tuesday.

Please pray for Penny. This has been so hard. The swallowing problem is scary.

Thanks,

Barb

Penny Update Part Two

2009-03-09T02:46:00.007-04:00

Ok....It is 2:51 am Sunday Night/Monday Morning Now....

I got to bring Penny home on Saturday morning.

I drove her Mom home first

( I ran through a stop sign, missed a turn, and stopped at a green light....)

NEVER DRIVE WHEN YOU ARE OVER TIRED!!

When Penny got home, she LOVED our new room!

I spent ALL of Friday night/Saturday Morning converting our guest room into our bedroom. (Hence the lack of sleep).

I got Penny settled in, and then I fell asleep. I slept....and I slept....

and I slept..... I woke up a whole 24 hours later!

The dogs didn't eat, the bearded dragons didn't eat, and the 2 cats didn't eat Saturday....and Penny tried eating grapes, but choked, so she tried peanuts for dinner on Saturday.

When I got up, I made eggs in a frame for Penny and I for breakfast.

I took care of all the animals. I gave Rocky his meds....

I went to Rite Aide and got Penny all of her meds.

I do have to say that since Penny has been home,

Rocky hasn't left Penny's side.

I have been at Penny's beck and call, and I always will be.

Tonight I changed the dressing on her surgery site, and cleaned it.

Penny is having trouble swallowing at times, and must take it real slow.

I am chopping food for her or cutting up her food.

(in surgery they had to literally set aside her vocal chords to get to the discs)

The pain is there....and it has been HELL to sleep in bed with that aspen collar.

I set up the recliner for her in the room, and that seems to help.

Penny has 6 to 8 weeks in this hard collar.

We go to the surgeon in 10 days to see how she is doing.

I have to help Rocky eat, clean out the inside of his collar and give him his meds.

I have to help Penny eat, wash out the inside of her collar,and give her, her meds.

WHAT A WAY TO BOND!!

PENNY UPDATE

2009-03-06T15:40:00.005-05:00

Okay....I am sitting in the hospital waiting room.

Penny just went in for surgery at about 2:30 pm.

Momma Suzanne and I just got out of the cafeteria (we were starving!)

The surgery we were told will last about 75 minutes if all goes as expected.

So far, so good.

I, on the other hand, have to split and pick up our cat Rocky

from the animal hospital.

They close at 6pm so, I am tight.

I wanted to be here when Penny got out of surgery,

but I have to bail Rocks out of his hospital cage, go home and settle him in, feed the dogs, let them out, and feed the beardies.

I figure after the surgery Penny will be in recovery for an hour. Momma Suzanne will be here for her when I leave, so she won't be alone at any time.

MORE LATER....

Penny's Mom and I are in the waiting room at this time 6:54 pm.
I had to leave here at 5 pm to pick up our cat "Rocky" from the vet.
I picked up Rocky, went home, fed the dogs, fed the Bearded Dragons, let the dogs out....
I called my Mom & Dad & then Momma Suzanne called me from the Hospital and told me that Penny's Doctor talked to her on the waiting room phone.
Penny got out of surgery at around 6 pm....She is now in recovery.
The operation went as expected (a "bit" longer than 75 minutes!)
They should be calling us soon to go and see her in her room.
It is now 6:58 pm and the hour in recovery is almost up.
The waiting room computer access closes at 8pm.
So I will update this WITH PHOTO'S when I get home tonight.
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I made it back to the hospital BEFORE Penny got to her room!

Momma Suzanne called me when I was home getting Rocky settled, and the girls and boys fed.... The Doctor told her that Penny would be in redcovery for about an hour or so....

So I had time to boogie back to the hospital waiting room with Penny's mom.

It was like I had never left.

I'm HOME it is 12:24 am now.

I left the hospital around 10 pm, Penny was sleeping.

She had been awake, and had some water and apple juice.

The pain was really bad, so they gave her some drugs.

I kissed her good night, and left.

Momma Suzanne is staying for the night.

I said I would return at 8am.

After I left the hospital, I went to the store and picked up groceries for the upcoming week. I plan on making Penny soups, and nice things.

Penny has to stay in the hard collar for at least 6 to 8 weeks, and then physical therapy for about 4-6 weeks.

I am doing laundry now....

Penny's favorite soft sheets!

More tomorrow.

God Bless,

Barb

When The Cup Overflows....

2009-03-05T13:21:00.003-05:00

I am learning that if my cup overflows I should just get another cup to catch the excess. I shouldn't mop up the bountiful "mess" that awaits me, because as much as I mop it up, the water will still keep coming. The "excess" needs a place to go. It must be dealt with, not mopped into the corners where the residue lingers.

At 2 I had a Baby Bottle (Protected)
At 20 I had A Sippy Cup.(Still Protected)
At 38 I had A Milkshake. (with a hole in the lid for the straw - 94% Protected.)
At 41 I had a Dribble Glass. (You never knew if you were protected or not.)

What awaits me either takes me back or moves me forward. Either way, it is still up to me to get that other cup.

After much consideration I am ready with that other cup. The cup that will catch the water when it overflows, seeps out, or otherwise cracks the glass.

I am ready to fill that other cup and then drink the excess and have become a apart of me, and become that which ultimately makes me grow.

**Remember** "A Cup can overflow in several ways. Accept your bountiful bath with your face up toward the sun, or get another cup to catch the fierce wave that tries to spill apon you. Either way accept it, and move on" B.A. Del Piano 2009

2009-02-28T15:15:00.004-05:00

Sorry Maaaa.....

I meant to post last night, and got so engrossed in a movie

that by the time it was over it was to late.

I want to show you the awesome dinner we had last night.

We had Ravioli and a nice shredded salad.

I was a SHREDDING FOOL!

I shredded the celery,

I shredded the tomato's,

I shredded the cucumbers,

I shredded the lettuce,

I got so excited I almost shred myself!

Yummy good food!

**Remember** "Ravioli represents the philosophy of love. The more you put into it, the more you get out of it " B.A. Del Piano 2009

SAY WHAT?

2009-02-21T14:21:00.008-05:00

So.... I decided I wanted some ca$h, so I start listing items on Craig's List.

In the plethera of items I list, is a HUGE White Monkey.

I had purchased the monkey on Long Island at a yard sale for $3.00.

I NEVER give a price for ANY item I sell on Craig's.Instead I ask people to send me their "Best Offers".This gets me more ca$h for each item. (Selling Tip: More often than not people OVER PAY if asked to give a best offer)

Well, a woman wrote back and said how about $20.00. I want this for my disabled son. So I wrote back and told her no problem, but $10.00 would be just fine.

Today, the woman and her husband, and 1 kid come to the door. We did our exchange of $10.00 for the monkey....She then proceeded to take out a polaroid photo of her disabled son who has CP.

The woman says "I just wanted you to know where this monkey is going, I am not trying to get this for less money, I'm not asking for a deal".....So I interrupt her, and say "oh, no you ain't gettin' no deal". Then everything went silent and awkward....I sware the whole family looked at me, turned and just left!

Did you ever listen to what you just said....shake your head, and say "I can't believe I just said that". Well, I had that wonderful moment today!

**Remember** "Eating your words isn't as tasty as a Grand Slam from Denny's" B.A. Del Piano 2009

Dear Dad....

2009-02-20T00:27:00.004-05:00

Hey Everyone.....

Please excuse me for uno-momento

while I send a tiny message to me Fodda....

Dear Dad,

I just wanted you to know, I listen to you. (for the most part!). Today we had a delivery. Penny ordered a VAST ARRAY of flavored coffees....and YES DAD we even got you what you requested. IRISH CREAM!(we also got Mudslide,and more French Vanilla) So Ya'll come back now ya hea'!

On another note:

Did you know that every Wednesday is "Family Day" at the Salvation Army? The new tradition here is The Salvation Army on Wednesday's.

You see on every other day during the week, The Salvation Army picks ONE color price tag and takes 50% off that color tagged item....BUT on Wednesday's they have 3 colors that they take 50% off!

I get $10.00 every Wednesday to go run a muck with at the Salvation Army. This passed Wednesday I got a nice bathrobe (with a Zebra on it.), a pair of nic e blue sweats, 5 baby blankies for the bearded dragons, a cool looking marmoset monkey plush and a shirt! The total was $9.30!! Hey I came in under!

**Remember** "Life is a variety of experiences, visions, and oppinions. For this we should be thankful, and have a vast variety of flavored coffees for our Dad" B.A. Del Piano 2009

I've Fallen and I can't get up

2009-02-10T23:28:00.004-05:00

I had a second moment where I was driven to help in a situation. One was my Mom's dog Fritzy when he stopped breathing last week. Then came my neighbor today. We had our living room blind open, and I had to mail a letter. I walked toward the front door, and noticed out the window, feet sticking out from infront of a minivan, and a cane strewn near the road.

I yelled across the street "Do you need help?" and there was no reponse. I then ran across the street and to my fear a woman lay on the ground, pocket book contents all over the snow, grass and dirt. I then leaned at her side and lifed her head.... she came to. I told her I was her neighbor, and that I would help her.

The woman was in pain, and I took things real slow. I picked up the contents of her purse, and put it back where it belonged, and I managed to get her to her feet, and balancing with her cane, and my body.

She is disabled I come to find out, and her legs gave out.

I managed to get her into her apartment, sitting and settled.
She called her boyfriend, I waited until he showed up.
I left her my number, and told her if she needed anything to call.

Funny, I got an answer to a question. If you saw someone on the street that needed your help....would you help, or stay out of it?

I would help.

**Remember** "Don't think....Just DO" - B.A. Del Piano 2009

Yummy Love Traveled Over

2009-02-10T00:48:00.007-05:00

For the first time in my life. I made chicken pot pie! They came out GREAT to boot! Penny was sweet to guide me through how to do it. We enjoyed the 1st pie last night, and now we have 1 to spare for another night! Tonight I made 2 small steaks with Zuchinni and Onions in my secret beef gravy with beef rice a roni! Aside from the bearded dragons eyeing me as I sliced the Zuchinni (they love Zuchinni!) all was delicious!

Tomorrow I take Penny to our Primary Care Doctor, and then on Wednesday I take my Mother-In-Law to my dentist.

Thank God the sun melted away A LOT of the snow, and I got to knock off the 2 huge icicles that were hanging on with dear life to my house!

THANK YOU MOM AND DAD for an earlier bedtime and an earlier dog & beardie feeding! Not to mention I am FULLY RECOVERED and back to being on track and orginized with my house chores! Your love and support traveled over 650 miles and I will NEVER forget it!

**Remember** "Never piss off someone who is preparing food for you, where do you think the saying me chinese, me play joke, me put pee-pee in your coke comes from....yup.... a cook or a waiter" B.A. Del Piano 2009

To Much To Tell....

2009-02-07T23:25:00.008-05:00

Stay with me.... So much to tell.

First thing is First....

Originally I had gone to ASPEN DENTAL.

My teeth hurt, my jaw hurt, and I was miserable.

I posted here and showed you some photo's of my visit.

I had called APEN DENTAL on a Thursday

telling them of my SEVERE PAIN they told me the first appointment was for the following Wednesday. Instead of going somewhere else, I suffered, and I waited.

ASPEN DENTAL took full mouth xrays of me, and the dentist that day offered me a mouth rinse for $67.00 (which I declined that day) and then proceeded to tell me I needed 8 teeth extracted Antibiotics, and a cleaning plan.

I thought....okay....

The dentist then told me to go to the front desk to get my "assesment".

WELL..... I got a $5,400.00 "plan" that they wanted to start me on.

Meanwhile I was still in AGONY, and I asked them what they were going to do with what I am feeling NOW. They told me that they could scedule me for a 2 tooth extraction that FOLLOWING MONDAY!

Penny and I left in COMPLETE DISBELIEF!

We went home and began going online to research dentists near us.

We found someone. Dr. Joan Laura. When we called the next day, she took us IMMEDIATELY. I had 4 teeth extracted THAT DAY!

Turns out I had 3 ABCESES going on! Not only that, but on the 2 upper teeth that were extracted, Dr. Laura could see my sinus cavity! So, along with the antibiotics SHE gave me, I had to follow instructions not to BEND.

If I bent my head, I could change the pressure, and my sinus cavity could erupt.

The lesson here NEVER GO TO ASPEN DENTAL.

& If you are NEAR the Syracuse area GO TO DR. JOAN LAURA!

Dr. Laura ROCKS!!

I FEEL GREAT NOW!

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On another note I am so proud of my sister!

Patti WON best "WANDA" Face on The People's Court!

There were HUNDREDS in this cometition, yet only 2 finalists

My Sister, and a woman named Velveeta Scott....

CONGRATULATIONS PATTI!

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ANNOUNCEMENT:

I have a NEW website strictly for my music.

pleaqsed visit http://www.barbsmusic.com/

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"When He Leaves"

Mom and Dad came up from North Carolina to help Penny and I during my mouth recovery. Not being able to bend was tough, and I was out of commision for a good 4 days. Always in bed. Penny with her neck problems, couldn't do chores or drive to her Dr's appointments.

So....Mom and Dad helped us a GREAT Deal.

On this trip however, came a sorry so big, a heartache so deep that the hurting won't soon be gone.

Mom and Dad's beloved dog Fritzy passed away.

We made arrangements for Fritzy to be cremated here in Syracuse.

We got to watch the individual cremation yesterday, and it was a very sweet experience. The people were AWESOME and the setting was nice too.

As I write this, Mom and Dad are on their way back home to North Carolina.

I am feeling MUCH better, and things are starting to settle again.

I only hope that Mom and Dad can relax tonight in their own home, and settle in as well.

-Barb**Remember** "Don't let life run you over, go SLOW and take each day as it comes, one day at a time" B.A. Del Piano 2009

Facebook Mania and Bill....

2009-01-29T00:52:00.004-05:00

Do you have a facebook? As of 2 weeks ago I didn't know what the hell a facebook was. But now.... I have what I deem "Facebook Mania". This site is a GREAT way to re-connect with old school friends, and DOESN'T COST ANYTHING like classmates charges you!

Not to mention there are tons of things you can do on Facebook. Trivia, causes, activities....send your friend chocolates, or squirt them with a water gun....even throw things at them!

On another note.... Production wrapped up on:

Just click on the photo above, and a window will pop up for you to save or open. Just press "Open" and you can hear the song.

I hope you enjoy it.

**Remember** "If you don't know what a "winkie" is NEVER volunteer to touch one" B.A. Del Piano 2009

YEA No More Caroline But Hee Haw Here I Come

2009-01-22T00:24:00.010-05:00

The Good News is that Caroline Kennedy is NOT going to run for the Senator's seat for New York to replace Hillary Clinton! I am THRILLED! I watched 3 different interviews with Caroline Kennedy, and in ALL interviews she HAD NO IDEA WHAT SHE WAS TALKING ABOUT!

When asked in these seperate interviews "What can you offer to the State of New York and the Senator position?" her answer was the same "I have many contacts in Washington". THAT WAS IT! No ideas. Not ONE.

The only thing I noticed about Caroline Kennedy is that she looks similar to Meredith Baxter! (and Baxter looks one heck of a lot better!)

On the flip side....

I went to the dentist today.

My back tooth on the left side has been bothering me horribly

for about 2 weeks. My lower jaw as well.

Here I am thinking, hey, it's a simple consultation they will take xrays,

and tell me my fate....

(Hey, nowadays, you can even sit in that dreaded chair

and watch a flat screened TV!)

As I sat there in the chair entertaining myself with the flat screened
TV and Nitrisoxide.... Nora the Dental Tech came in to tell me my fate!

I have to have 8 teeth pulled, bottom dentures and....

I may have TMJ (Hey Burt Reynolds another thing we have in common!)

and I am looking at fake teeth on the bottom! HEEE HAW here I come!

**Remember** "Never get your toothpaste and your hemorrhoid cream get mixed up" - B.A. Del Piano 2009

She's Baaaaaaaaaaack!!

2009-01-21T05:56:00.006-05:00

My Ass & My Face???

2009-01-19T21:10:00.008-05:00

Remember that old joke:

"Ya Gotta Match?

and the wise guy would bark back at cha'

"Yeah, Your Face and My Ass!"

Unfortunately.... I got Praaaa-blums! My Hemmeroids aren't Hemmeroids. I have to go to a rectal surgeon. In other words: The Dreaded ASSMAN.

I also "clench" my teeth at night. Right now, my jaw is very painful, and eating isn't easy (now there's a diet!) I have been sleeping A LOT, and my teeth hurt on one side as well. So I think I just covered my face and my ass!

Rememeber: YOU chose to read this blog, and I have NO SHAME.

I put it out there.

If it is happening in my life, for the most part it's on my blog.

So if you are offended by severe ass pain

(don't worry I refrained from photo's!)

Then this blog is NOT for you.

On a completely different note.... I have been putting all my time and energy into a new website. I have Created and Authored this site, and I love watching it grow. I just built this site and already I have followers and fans. I am truly Blessed that it is taking off like it is. The site is dedicated to Bearded Dragon Owners and their AWESOME Dragons. http://www.beardeddragonhaven.com/

Another cool surprise is that I am also in the works of Authoring a book series.

I never in my life thought that I could write a book. I have written a short story, and songs, but never a book. I hope the 1st edition will be available for purchase by March 2009.

WISH ME LUCK!

Remember: Sucess is NOT measured by what you own, or what you wear. True success is measured by HOW MANY you own, and HOW you wear it! B.A. Del Piano

The ONLY MAN I Ever LOVED.

2009-01-15T03:32:00.008-05:00

Today I lost the ONLY MAN I ever loved.

That's right. MAN.

On this Earth, there was ONLY one man that I would get "intimate" with.

I had a crush on him when I was a child.

That was when I first saw him....

I fell in love with him in my teens.

Imagining us together in daydreams.

Wondering if I would really go "all the way" with him.

In my Dreams, tenderly, I always did.

As I grew up, I saw him occasionally, admiring him from afar,

and still loving and desiring him.

Knowing even now as an adult, I could NEVER have him.

Tonight I sit with a heavy heart at the news of his passing.

My heart aware that no one lives forever.

And I know I shall NEVER forget him.

**Remember** "No One Lives Forever on this Earth, God Grants us Forever and Ever in Heaven, But until then, he allows us our own Fantasy Islands"

B.A. Del Piano 2009

Photo's

2009-01-09T01:49:00.003-05:00

**QUESTION** " If the energizer bunny was arrested, would he be charged with battery?" - B.A. Del Piano 2009

Wednesday....

2009-01-07T21:43:00.008-05:00

I am satisfied, comfortable, and feeling really good. Could it be that I just finished a nice stuffed Manicotti dinner. Nice soft and warm bread....and to start it off was a Mozzarella,Basil, Tomato, Cucumber Salad.

The first photo you see is my Male Beardie Angel Lynn ( we didn't know She was a "HE"!)

Today Penny and I got up early, and headed out. I had to meet a woman in the parking lot of B.J.'s (you may be asking...then Barb why the hell are you taking your wife?) I was doing a "pick up" from Craig's List. I got a "pedestal"/"pillar". I saw it on Craigslist for $10.00 and thought that was a GREAT DEAL! The first thing I thought of was my Elvis statue.... Check it out! I think that they look pretty good together!

I took Penny to redeem the Gift Certificates she got for Christmas. So we went to "Smith's Restaurant Supply". We got a cool "finger peeler" I picked up, a shredder, a bowl scraper, a magnet with the measurement equivalent on it, and a new set of cool looking measuring spoons. Then I took the wife to "The Parable" (A Christian Store) where she had another gift certificate. (P.S. NEVER go up to the counter of a Christian Book Store, pull out an EXPIRED Coupon and say Oh, Shit! Well, Can you validate it anyway??) Isn' that like a sin or something? One of the original 14 Commandments?? Thou Shall Not ask a Christian Book Store Clerk To Validate An Expired Coupon!! Penny got a beautiful Thomas Kinkade Print in a frame, and a Kinkade coin purse. I got a bookmark for my new Bible, and a box of greeting cards.

We stopped to get gas and filled the Rav4 for $13.00!! YUP $13.00!! We were BELOW empty, and we used our Price Chopper (grocery store) Advantage Card. We got .80 off per gallon!! Whooooooooaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhh!! We were Thrilled!!

Then we went to the grocery store and picked up a few things. I got the bearded dragons some V8 Juice. I figure that way they don't have to knock themselves in the head wishing they had some!!

More Later!!

Fire In The Hole!

2009-01-05T01:37:00.005-05:00

If you have been wondering how I am.... Let's do the TMI Game.

I have been in SEVERE PAIN for the past 3 or 4 days now. I attribute this to the HUGE PAIN IN MY ASS known as hemorrhoids.

When did I get this old?

Oh, and I am doing much better with the sweat problem I am sure because my body is now getting acclimated to my water pill. The water pill I take is for my swollen ankle problem. The Multiple Sclerosis and Fibromyalgia are under control for the time being.

Yup this is my 41. CAN'T WAIT FOR 50!

On the other hand.... I set up Daisy Juanita (my bearded dragon) with a digging tub, turns out it is to small. I will have to set her up with a bigger tub tomorrow.

More News as it comes..... Your faithful PAIN IN THE ASS.....(Literally!!)
Barb

**Remember** "Wisdom comes by learning from experience, not by repeating the same old crap you already stepped in" B.A. Del Piano 2009

An Angel in the Blackberry Patch

2009-01-03T03:48:00.004-05:00

Funny how you really get to k now your animals when you live with them day to day.

Every Animal I have ever had, has a certain personality. This also goes for Bearded Dragons as well. Not all are created equal.

Daisy Juanita (A CONFIRMED FEMALE) is a sweet personality, hand waves, never head bobs to other dragons.(A sign of aggression/or mating ritual) never turned her beard black....and only got pissed off when our Yorkie Poo was being a complete pain in the ass! Angel Lynn (confirmed Male) is completely different.

Angel WILL head bob, and turn his beard completely BLACK, and even slap down his front foot on the ground just to make a point.

But.... I found a soft spot on my little bearded friend. A bonding point that I (as his daddy) love spoiling him with. BLACKBERRIES. I hope you enjoy the photo's of Angel (above).

Here's a P.S. on Daisy Juanita. She may be PREGNANT. YUP. That's right! Female Bearded Dragons DO NOT need males to lay eggs. However, whatever eggs that Daisy may lay, will not be fertilized. Therefore NO BABIES. We noticed Daisy's behavior change a few days ago. Daisy is scratching on the sides of her cage, constantly digging the walls. This is a sign that 1. Daisy IS A FEMALE. 2. She may be looking for a place to lay eggs.

I will update as things may or may not happen. Tomorrow I will go to the dollar store and get some organic soil, (wet it a little) and put it in a tub. I will then put Daisy in it, and leave her alone for awhile to see if she relieves that urge to dig and lay eggs.

**Remember** "Wisdom comes by learning from experience, not by repeating the same old crap you already stepped in" B.A. Del Piano 2009

Wash This Judge!

2009-01-02T02:43:00.009-05:00

Today I stood by my convictions, and did laundry all day.
I spent the day in the upper area of the house,
watching a series of "Rocky" movies back to back
while ironing, folding and loading & unloading the machines!
(now if that aint butch nuttin' is!)

Tomorrow they are running "Rambo 1 & 2".
I suppose it's Sylvester Stallone week here!
I have quite an ironing pile here, so I guess I will tune in, and watch John Rambo kick the crap out of some people on the tube!

Speaking of television, I really like watching the "Judge" shows on TV.
I used to favor Judge Marilyn Milian on The People's Court, Hell, I was even on The People's Court (yes, I won my case),
but now there are SOOOOOOO many Judges to choose from!

Currently, I watch....
Judge Alex
Judge Mathis
Judge Karen
Judge Judy
and Janine Pirro

Judge Pirro being my current Fav.
I DVR Judge Judy just so she won't kick the shit out of me! I love that lady! You don't mess with Judge Judy, and you can tell she has sooo had it with these dunder heads!

Do me a favor, when you watch a Judge show, (especially Judge Judy) check out the language. People do NOT know how to speak English!

I sware this woman is speaking and she says:
"He done grabbed me, and now I don't conversate wit him no moe".
Then another brilliant mind perks up
"She punched a dent in my car door,
then swang and swang at my window and brokedid the glass".

THANK GOD I didn't get my Ed-U-Mac-Ation thru TV!

**Remember** "Wisdom comes by learning from experiences, not by repeating the same old crap you already stepped in" B.A. Del Piano 2009

Happy New Year 2009!

2009-01-01T02:14:00.009-05:00

Along with the NEW YEAR of 2009 come the resolutions....
Now I gave up resolutions a few years ago, ( that was a New Year Resolution itself!) but I do have new hopes, and goals for this nice New Year. Not listed in any particular order.

I want Penny and I to find a church home.
I want to lose a couple of pounds.
I want to find a live band.
I want my family to be healthy.
I want to go back to an organized house (laundry/ironing/chores)

That should do it. The thing about resolutions is, you gotta be careful. You don't want to put to much pressure on yourself. Things you may not be able to live up to. So I stick to the showbiz saying K.I.S.S. (Keep It Simple Stupid).

Santa Clause brought our bearded dragons beds. Yup 3 little doll beds. These beds have actual soft cuddly mattress'.

Strange of Santa you say??
Take a look at this!

Above Daisy Juanita ( RE-CONFIRMED A FEMALE Dragon) sleeping tight in her new bed from Santa. The 1st photo below is Dani (UNCONFIRMED SEX) getting ready to play on his bed & then go night nights. #2 Photo is Dani playing "Captain of his bed ship".

Yup 2009 and things are NORMAL in this house still!

Madam In Wonderland

2008-12-30T22:04:00.004-05:00

Santa brought me 2 new Elvis Shirts!
This one is the "Cisco Kid" shirt.
I figured I would record a few songs tonight.

Funny, people think that you can just go into the studio and record them 1, 2 , 3. I was down there for hours. I can sing a song up to 25-30 times until I am satisfied with it. Most people would be driven crazy by the repetitive nature of this process. Thank God I'm not "most people".

A song I did back on Long Island years ago called "Past Midnight" took me 10 hours to create OVER AND OVER AND OVER AND OVER again.
(Drove Penny NUTS!!)

I hope you like the 2 (out of 3) cuts I did tonight.

"Here Comes Santa Clause"

"Silent Night"

These cuts will be on my upcoming album
"Madam In Wonderland"
(to be released in 2009)

**Remember** "Someone always says something profound in their lifetime, that doesn't make them any more insightful than the man who invented the boob mug".
- B.A. Del Piano 2008

The Christmas Holiday 2008

2008-12-26T23:39:00.011-05:00

Christmas Eve:

For the first time in so LONG I cannot remember, I didn't go to a Christmas Eve church service. But.... I was not feeling well.

I have this new thing, I do a little, and I sweat a LOT. I don't mean sweat, I mean HAIR DRENCHED neck wet, clothes wet sweat, with exhaustion. Odd. I have had low grade fevers with this as well.

Take a look at the photo below. This is me on Christmas Day sitting and playing with my puss kittens. My hair was soaked, yet my nose was freezing, and my forehead was cold and clammy.

Despite the sweaty crap.... Christmas Eve was very nice.
My Mother In Law came over and we put out quite a spread for her.

Deviled Eggs, Pepperoni, Nacho Cheese Pie, Clam Pie, Chips, Veggies Dips, A Variety of Cracker Barrell Cheeses & Crackers, Olives, Gerkins.... and of course Christmas Cookies!!

We watched "It's A Wonderful Life" (black and white version) and the Grinch, then Midnight Mass at the Vaticin....... I am NOT Catholic, so this is what I got from that Mass....

"Oooobley - Doooobley- Dobley-Weeble".........

Momma in Law went home around 2 am. I sent Penny to bed, and I was determined to meet Santa Clause so I stayed up....
(until I fell asleep!)

CHRISTMAS DAY:
(I missed my Mom and Dad, Sister & Niece.)

Christmas Morning was AWESOME.
Penny got up with the pups, and there were gifts under the tree!
(and candy canes hanging from the branches!)

Santa even left 2 donut doggie beds for the babies! Junior ran directly to one, and Lilly Joe tried to open a couple of gifts that were under the tree! (Sure dogs don't know!!)

and look what Santa left in our dining room
(what did he do with our old set????)

Santa also left something
SPECIAL for me....

I love my Orangutan!!
She is soooooooo AWESOME!!

Penny Loves her too!!

We had a nice relaxing day together watching Bing Crosby and Danny (f'n) Kay in White Christmas.

Penny's Mom came over and we had a nice lasagna dinner
a mozzarella salad and a cheese cake dessert!

We had a very nice day filled with food,
and laughs and many blessings.
(put the mother in law right out!!)

**Remember** "Someone always says something profound in their lifetime, that doesn't make them any more insightful than the man who invented the pet rock". - B.A. Del Piano 2008

HO HO HOCHOO!

2008-12-24T01:17:00.009-05:00

When I came home from North Carolina, I had the flu bug.
I went to my Doc. the day after I got home, he gave me a strong antibiotic. All was well....except the cough lurked around a bit.

We keep getting socked with snow.
My neighbor Sal has a big....

SNOW BLOWER!

Between Sal and I plowing and shoveling, and then the damn snowplow people filling things back in....it's been a bit hard to keep up.
Mind you Sal is 75 and I have MS.

Soooo.... I had to go out and deliver the Avon orders today. Then after that do some final touches on shopping. Not for gifts, but for food and snacks for Christmas Eve
and Christmas Day.

When I got back home, I was so sick.
The coughing was so bad I sware I turned blue.

Penny gave me my meds + cough medicine (YUCK!!)

I am feeling a bit better now, at 6:48 am.

I know that for the first time in I CANNOT REMEMBER WHEN
I won't be going to a Christmas Eve service, and that breaks my heart.

I will post more as the holiday unfolds.
God Bless Us All....Everyone....

CRAP! WRONG TINY TIM!!

**Remember** "Someone always says something profound in their lifetime, that doesn't make them any more insightful than the man who invented the chia pet". - B.A. Del Piano 2008

The Rest Of The Christmas Photo's

2008-12-22T23:30:00.005-05:00

Christmas Pic's Snow Poms and Santa!

2008-12-21T21:40:00.007-05:00

As we count down the days to Christmas,
I have my eye out for Santa Claus and those flying reindeer.
Today is December 21, 2008.
What is Mr. Clause doing today....right now?
What's happening at the North Pole?
You can click on the banner below, or go to this site to find out.
http://www.northpole.com/Village.html

I LOVE tracking Santa Clause!
If you have noticed, like I have....
sometimes the times are a little "off"
on the Norad tracker..
Hey I am such a pro at this, I have been doing this since I was a kid!

I will be listening to the Santa tracker, or watching it on the news,
and sometimes it says that Santa already delivered to my State of New York, yet I KNOW he hadn't stopped at my house yet.

Remember, that Santa Clause does NOT go the same speed every year.
I mean who knows if he let Blitzen or Lawanda stay home and let Chester drive??

The rate of speed times by the time continum....
Norad cannot be exact.

Now onto Snow Angels.
Yes, even dogs can do this special imprint in the snow.
I have proof.We caught Emily Sue having a ball in the snow!

Fwwwwwwwwwwwwwew!!

2008-12-19T01:52:00.006-05:00

The packages were mailed off today to our friends and relatives. The cookies were handed out to our wonderful neighbors and also included in the packages we sent.)
What you see above on the Left:
Raspberry Magic Bars
(made with coconut and chocolate and damn they ROCK!!)
On the Right: Gingerbread Chocolate Bars...
They may sound like crap, but they taste GREAT!....
(I don't care for gingerbread, but try em' they are GOOD!)

Now for the next batch: ABOVE at the top you will see Ricotta Cheese Cookies with a nice marachino cherry in the middle (is that classy or what?) AWESOME Tasting too!!

The dark cookies on your left are Cappaccino Flats. These were wild to make, after the dough was made, and chilled in the garage for awhile... then I shaped and cut the dough logs, baked them, and let them cool, then DIPPED THEM IN CHOCOLATE!!

Next are the Pecan Snowballs......As you can see, we chose cookies that had TASTE and Variety!!

and finally......way on your right are the "Spritzes".
The Red Ones are Almond Flavored!!
The Green Ones are Vanilla Flavored
just to screw with your taste buds!!

Little Minnie Mae Thought the Spritzes were the same
and look at what it did for her taste buds!!
ARE YOU READY FOR CHRISTMAS?

COOKIE PRESSES SUCK!

2008-12-18T00:55:00.009-05:00

As Christmas is nearing, there are things Penny and I must prepare for. We were looking so forward to baking cookies together. So we pulled an ALL NIGHTER last night.
As a matter of fact, we stayed up until about 8 am.

That's right 8 am!

I went into this remembering when I was a young un' and my Mom would fill the cookie press, and hand it off to my and my sister. All we had to do was click the trigger, and a tiny cookie wo0uld appear in whatever shape we chose. So this year I bought 2 cookie presses.
1 pampered chef and 1 cheap one from Walmart.
1st try....
THE PAMPERED CHEF COOKIE PRESS....

I don't remember life being this HARD! Sooooo...
I switched to the cheapo Walmart Brand....

I tried to push the trigger.... Without bringing my intestines to complete failure.... No can do. So I pushed the top to let the dough come out, and it did....SLOWLY.
Of course then THE DAMN BOTTOM POPPED OUT, AND I HAD RED DOUGH IN MY LAP!!

Did I give up?? HELL NO!

We got a TON of cookies done,
and we will be sending them out to
friends and family for the holiday season!
(I ain't eating these!! Lol!!)

***** IN MEMORY OF UNCLE RALPHIE Dec. 17, 2002*****

Oh, Christmas Tree....What kinda PUDDING??

2008-12-12T14:33:00.001-05:00

We managed to finish our Christmas Tree. Penny did an AWESOME job video taping the revolving tree! Hope you enjoy watching it.

In the song "We Wish You A Merry Christmas" there is a line that has been bothering the crap out of me ever since I was a kid. That damn line about bringing someone some "FIGGY PUDDING"!! WHO THE HELL WOULD EAT FIGGY PUDDING?? What the hell does "FIGGY PUDDING" LOOK LIKE??? Here is my rendition of what "Figgy Pudding" looks like :

Not A Creature Was Stirring....

2008-12-10T02:18:00.002-05:00

It's the end of 2 era's.
One of my favorite shows Boston Legal ended.
I watched the last episode tonight.
And our beloved fancy mouse "Stewie" passed away today.
"Stewie" lived to the "high end" of his lifespan.
Fancy mice live to be 1 to 1 1/2 years old.
Stewie was just over 2 years with us.

I will miss him dearly,
but I am richer in spirit for being blessed with "Stew".

I am just getting over a NASTY Flu.
It's driving me CRAZY that Christmas Decorations aren't up yet.
We went NUTZ trying to find a new tree this year.

I cannot count the stores we were in today.
We wound up purchasing 2 trees today.
1 tree was 7.5 feet tall, it was beautiful.
We even purchased a revolving stand for $40.00.

We got the damn thing.....
I mean the beautiful spruce up in the living room.
IT DIDN'T FIT!! IT WAS TO BIG!!

Sooooooo, I had to re-box the damn thing
I mean the beautiful spruce...and lug it back to Home Depot.

We got a refund, and headed out to 7 or 8 MORE STORES!
Finally, we got a nice 6.5 foot tree that fits GREAT in our revolving
tree stand. The tree is up.....and we will decorate it tomorrow.

Photo's to follow.

Please remember "Stewie" and ALL creatures great and small
in your prayers. I will miss me little rodent friend.

Ok....I'm HERE AGAIN!

2008-11-30T13:25:00.008-05:00

(Actual Sign located in Raleigh North Carolina!)

You may be asking yourself
"Damn It Barb!....Where The Hell Have You Been?"
or you may not give a crap at all!
Either way I'm going to tell ya....
I am in North Carolina at the moment,
and I have been here since Nov. 23rd.
(Actual Sign Virginia/N. Carolina)

Mom and Dad came to pick up their 2 dogs,
and I took the 12 hour drive back with them.
Mind you, that is something I hope to never do again.
I would rather fly than drive the 12 hours.
Although we took turns driving, my legs were in rough shape.

However.... Thanksgiving at my sister's house was very nice.
Here are some photo's....

Me and my sis Patti

Me and my Bro. in Law Ken
Me and my Bro. in law Woody
I missed seeing my niece Cass,
but she was with her boyfriends family in Georgia.
I miss being home in NY.
The Carolina's are okay, but I wouldn't live here.
(Yup. Another actual sign in North Carolina.)

Happy Birthday Cass!

2008-11-15T21:10:00.011-05:00

To my niece who owns a special part of my heart, I wish you a Happy Birthday. We don't chat as often as I want, and we live quite a distance from each other now, and this is NOT how I would have things....

I remember when you were born, and Grandma, your Dad and I stayed up all night into the morning waiting for a special little girl or boy to arrive into our family. When we saw you, we fell in love. I remember asking the nurse "well, what is it?" (as I was the 1st to hold you....) The nurse said "it's a girl"....so I had to have a chat with this new little girl I was holding.

I told you how much you had ahead of you. I told you how WONDERFUL it was to fall in love. I told you how much love could hurt. I told you to keep Jesus Christ FIRST in your life, and I prayed with you in my arms and asked God humbly.... To ALWAYS keep you in a protective bubble where no one on this Earth would harm a hair on your head. I remember waking you up when you were little. I would go up the stairs slowly to your room....and then peak my head in....you would smile and laugh. I am so PROUD of the woman that you have become, and I so miss the bond we had. I love you & Hope your birthday was AWESOME!
I got a call yesterday morning from our bank Keybank.
I thought, oh, crap.... are we overdrawn??

NOPE! Seems I WON in their Customer Appreciation Drawing!
2 winners were drawn, and YOURS TRULY got a prize!
So I went down there, and they took some promo photo's!

ALL I GOT WAS STINKING USB FLASH DRIVE!
32 STINKING MEGABITES!
It SUCKS!
It Just SUCKS!
Keybank is a multimillion dollar conglomerate you think they could have given away a few measly hundred dollars! I feel so under appreciated!! Bastid Sons O' Finches! Eat my shorts! Tickets to a Stevie Nicks concert would have been great! A damn stinkin' toaster would be appreciated.....but a 32 megabite flash drive??? the box had freakin' dust on it! Lousy Sons of a mutherless goat!! May the fleas of 1,000 camels land in their boxer shorts!! May they put their dentures in backwords and chew their stinking heads off!! 32 megabite flash drive.....

Let the fighting begin....
So I take Lilly Jo on a trip with Daddy (me.)
Our mission is to find Pajama's for Lilly.
Minnie Mae already has a few pairs of Jam Jams....
Now it's all about Lilly.
We went to Petco here on the Blvd. We didn't find anything.
We were having fun though. The employees and customers love Lilly.Then I decided to take Lilly to the source of where we saw the pajamas before. So I drove to Mattydale. We went to that Petco.

THE MOUTH IS SET ON SPEED DIAL

While Lilly and I were looking at the different P.J.'s and sweaters, there were 2 women emplyees talking to and petting Lilly. I thought that was really cool. After they visited, Lilly stood on the other side of me.

There was a man with his son.
The son started "barking" at Lilly.
So I looked over, and then he started growling and going "Yaaaa-Yaaaa".
So I walk over....

I come out and say this:
Excuse me sir, can you please tell your rotten son not to tease my dog.
As soon as I said it.... I took a step back, and just waited for the fight to insue.

But instead, the guy slaps his son on the shoulder, and tells him to knock it off! As I smile and walk away with Lilly, I give the kid one of these:

GOD IT FELT SO GOOD!

Hey Sis! WOW Christmas....Salvation Army Gripe!

2008-11-11T21:36:00.006-05:00

Besides being Veteran's Day, it is me sister's Birthday!!
Me sister just turned ___ today!

"You don't stop laughing when you grow old;
you grow old when you stop laughing." - Unknown

Yes My Dear Seeeeester, that is my advise to you.
Oh, and I also learned through the years
the wisdom of knowing for sure that
"The Check Is In The Mail"
and when you actually receive it, it feels like your birthday is extended. So I decided to wait to send you your Birthday Gift.... That in itself is a selfless act on my part to extend YOUR Special Day for you.

Believe it or not, I am working on my Christmas Cards already.
I NEVER do that this early, but if I don't....
Christmas will sneak up on me, and I will be all balled up,
and before you know it, no one gets Christmas Cards from us.
We started Christmas Shopping.... and I pray that there is something that we can give to Jesus. After all, it's HIS Birthday. Of course I could extend it.....Nahhhh.

GIVING.... Penny and I ALWAYS support The Thrifty Shopper here in Syracuse, and of course The Salvation ARMY Stores.

I have a question. Who prices the items in the Salvation ARMY?
I have no idea how they come to certain dollar amounts for things.
I was so blown away by the INFLATED prices that I got disgusted.

In our Salvation Army location on Erie Blvd. in Syracuse
The prices are so bloated it's TERRIBLE.

Our Thrifty Shopper went up as well in prices,
but they are still affordable.
Donations aren't down, and they are here to serve our community.

SO....
I went on the Salvation Army website. There is a link that says:
Contact Us. It leads you NOWHERE.

I am pissed at the pricing. I am pissed at the way they organize their clothes.
Never by size. Only by color. TERRIBLE.
Look out Salvation Army....
Barb is PO'd and I'm gonna make some noise!

The Transfer Is Complete Captain....

2008-11-09T03:22:00.015-05:00

For little dogs, especially chihuahua's with short hair....
maintaining their body heat is not an easy thing to do. Hence, we must give way to the doggie pajamas, coats and sweaters.
The cold weather is upon us, and we must protect our little ones from body shakes and rattling teeth!
___________________________________________________________________
On Another Note:

My 41st Birthday was spent in Manorville.
This was my last Birthday to be celebrated in the "old house".
My birthday SUCKED.
IT JUST SUCKED!!

Perhaps it was because everyone was so exhausted from packing and trying to get the house together for closing....There just wasn't enough energy to go around.... A lot had to be done, and I really understood that....but as far as birthday's go.... this one was the worst I've ever had.

____________________________________________________________________

THE TRANSFER IS COMPLETE CAPTAIN....

Mom and Dad are SAFE in North Carolina.

The closing(s) on both homes went very well.

Although there is a HUGE hole in my heart that the distance between us is a lot larger than its ever been....

I can only wish for both of you a

LONG....LONG HAPPY RELAXING Retirement.
ALWAYS KNOW Mommy and Daddy that
YOU will ALWAYS have a room here.
ALWAYS.

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-31T02:44:00.012-04:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN FROM THE DEL PIANO'S!
The final tally is 44 kids we had!
Penny was the Fortune Teller, I was a Piggy In A Blanket!
and here we give you the rest of our clan!
(Stewie isn't feeling well, so we didn't put him through a costume change, we were going to dress him as Minnie Mouse!)

Is FAK a word?

2008-10-23T15:48:00.000-04:00

I am on Long Island, and I am helping my Mom and Dad pack things up for their big move to North Carolina. I packed up 14 boxes yesterday, and many, many more today.... and we aren't even out of the kitchen yet! DAMN LONG STEMMED GLASSES!

Well, we still have a TON more to pack, and only DAYS left to do it.I had planned on leaving on Sunday, but not to sure now.I know that I want to be home for Halloween to dress up and give out candy to the kids.

I bought and already bagged up all of my candy and toy treats for the children.I filled 3 Avon Box tops with those little Halloween paper sacks. Not to mention all of the fakin' glow sticks that the kids can make bracelets or necklaces out of.

***BEWARE DO NOT TRY THIS IF YOU ARE UNDER 20 YEARS OF AGE***

I wanted to go to the TURNING STONE Casino

for my upcoming Birthday.

Financially we cannot afford to do this now.

Soooooo.... I thought maybe I could do this on a smaller scale.

Penny let me do this tonight.

I actually played for REAL MONEY on a Casino site.

I vowed that what Penny gave me would be IT. No wanting more.

(Okay so the 1st photo that came up was CASINO LISBOA!

NO ONE MAKE ANY CRACKS! or holes!)

Anyhooo.... Penny gave me $100.00 and I turned it into $202.75.

That is where I walked away.

God I hope we can get out of the Kitchen tomorrow!!

More as it happens.

The First Story Time Series....

2008-10-18T23:49:00.004-04:00

To get you going on our FIRST Story Time Series,
I am posting it HERE on the blog. Normally the Story Time Series will be posted on my homepage at www.BarbaraDelPiano.com

Now's The Time Baby!

2008-10-17T20:56:00.008-04:00

NOW would be a good time to RETIRE!
It's always been the "man's place" to go to work and take care of his family. At least, that is how it was. My Dad met that challenge and did so steady, and faithful for everyday of my life....
and even before I came along....
Dad worked for 30 Years at Grumman in Calverton. After Grumman folded, there was a period of mourning, and I'm sure, some uncertainty. Spending 30 years at a job not only do you know the job inside and out, but you also know the people. What a twist of fate this must have been.

Dad managed to pick himself up, and dust himself off, and go back to work again. This time the train wouldn't stop until TODAY.

From Grumman to Security to the Game Farm to
The South Manor School District....
I remember Dad always doing physical work.
and at the cost of his back, legs and knees....

Now.... Dad it's your time to retire and put that train room together. The one with all the cool Rail Road Displays!

Take pride in knowing that ALL through your life you have NEVER had your children want for ANYTHING.
You kept your family warm and well fed under the same roof for 40 years.

And for this, YOU DESERVE YOUR OWN TIME NOW.
Sit back and kick open a cold one as you design your new train room in front of your 60" Wide Screen Theater Projecting Barb's in AWE of and you will make popcorn for me....Television Set!

Long Island Here I Come!

2008-10-17T03:07:00.004-04:00

I am going to be gone for a little bit, I may still post short updates.
I am going to Long Island to help Mom and Dad
pack up and get organized for their big move to North Carolina.

Today was one of those days you will remember like the 1st Day Of School, Your Graduation, Your Wedding....

My Mom started working part time when I was 12 years old.
This wasn't a desire of hers, it was an economic necessity.
As the economy changed, the United States found more and more women heading to work WITH their husbands working as well.The end of the 1970's brought big changes as we headed into the 1980's.
The house wife was on the cusp of becoming a rarity.
A new era was born.

My Mom was torn. I can remember her saying
"I DON'T WANT TO HAVE LATCH KEY KIDS".
I also remember the talk Mom and Dad had with us at the "Family Dinner Table"(Remember that?) Mom was going to be working part time, and we had to pull our weight around the house.

Well....That was when I was 12,
Mom went to Full Time within a few months of her being hired.
I am now 40 and my Mom just retired TODAY.
28 Years Later!

Remember Mom, as scared as you may be now.
Today.... About retirement, and you wonder
"WHAT AM I GONNA DO NOW??"
Just think that God is putting you BACK in time now,
returning you to where you were before your children were born.
ONLY BETTER.
Now you have a Grandchild,
and Grown Daughters
You can chat with on your own level.
A family that loves and appreciates and admires you.
ENJOY YOUR LIFE!!
It's Your Turn!!

2008-10-16T02:07:00.003-04:00

I'M GOING TO GO FOR IT!

The big talk with Randy (My Drummer) happened Monday Night.
The live shows are NOT off the menu.

The 2 hour phone conversation was really enlightening.
We have a man named Mark VERY interested in joining this party,
and from what I gather,Mark is one heck of a Lead Guitar player.

I have sold ALL of my Elvis Jumpsuits.
I only have some scarves left, and my pair of Black Boots
(oh, and the White Boots to!)

So to remedy this, and to not appear in the buff anywhere,
I asked Santa Claus to bring me what you see pictured
above, and belowin the colors I want. Santa told me he would.
(Provided I don't make anymore kids cry with my "Barb's Storytime Series")

My goal is to take the live show to Vegas in 2010.
READY MA?

Just One More....New Things!

2008-10-14T19:34:00.006-04:00

Time to tally up the McDonalds
Monopoly Game Pieces.
This is what I need to win SOMETHING....

I need Golden Ave. to win $100,000.00
I need Boardwalk to win $1,000,000.00
I need Pennsylvania Ave. to win $50,000.00
I need Ventnor Ave. to win $25,000.00
I need Kentucky Ave. to win $10,000.00
I need Tennessee Ave. to win $5,000.00
I need Virginia Ave to win $1,000.00
I need Short Line R.R. to win $500.00
I need Mediteranean Ave. to win $100.00
and last but VERY LEAST....
I need Water Works to win $50.00

Now that I've gotten that out of the way....
I have an announcement to make in case you haven't been on my re-vamped home page.

COMING SOON to
www.BarbaraDelPiano.com

Through the technology of YOU TUBE

we are happy to present a New Storytime Series

From the truly WARPED mind of Barbara Del Piano.

These are Unscripted and some are even Un-interesting.

The stories are done in 1 take.

We hope you will enjoy them, because we really didn't care for them.

2 NEW STORIES PER MONTH.

POSTED On the www.BarbaraDelPiano.com home page.

AVAILABLE FOR VIEWING EVERY OTHER SUNDAY.

STARTING SUNDAY OCTOBER 19, 2008.

With a SPECIAL HALLOWEEN READING ON OCTOBER 31,2008

***WARNING***

***THESE READING ARE GEARED TOWARDS ADULTS NOT CHILDREN***

These stories may contain adult language, and kids don't need to hear that shit.

(OH, CRAP....)

SEE!

We tested "Barb's New Story Time Series" on 5 random children.

And one little Bastid'
GOT ROUGH!

Despite this....
We ARE going forward with our New Feature as planned!
HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE THIS COMING SUNDAY!

Losing Faith....

2008-10-14T02:02:00.008-04:00

I have come across this before in my life, and I suppose I always will until I have completely primed the pump dry.

I grew up protected.
My childhood was FANTASTIC, innocent, and safe.
(for the most part!)

I was blessed in full.
My cup runneth over with love and family.
I am happy with my character. But I get so HURT when others lack that certain part of me, that I love.
(Generosity to give what you can to your brother or sister) Last Sunday someone stole our Halloween Decoration. We didn't have a lot out, but what we did have I worked hard to put together, and make it look nice for our neighbors. Below is the photo of what was stolen. My little green monster boy.

Like I told my neighbors and my Mom,
it wasn't so much the merchandise, but the "ACT" itself.

Someone with rotten intentions was that close to my home.
On my property.

It's scary. It's an invasion.
And it's JUST PLAIN WRONG.
Are we all not Brothers and Sisters?
Should we try to help each other?
I always thought YES.

Since I came to Syracuse, I gave $40.00 to a man who had a shopping cart with his belongings in it.
He mentioned food, so the next day Penny and I bought him some pre-cooked chicken, and a Large pizza with drinks.

He chuckled, took the food and proceeded to ask me for more cash.
I walked away like a lost cat in the City streets.

A woman in the grocery store....
She and her husband are on line ahead of me.
They have food coupons.
They are also limited in the amount of money
that they can write in a check.
They have some groceries that they are putting back because they cannot afford it. I say "Don't Worry" I'll put it on my debit card.

They say, oh Thank You, but we need cash for gas and such.
So they use their check and food coupons....
and now I committed to give them cash.
I asked how much do you need for gas
the woman said $40.00,
So I took $40.00 out of the ATM,
The woman Thanked me with tears in her eyes.
I thought that was sweet,
until I saw her stop the tears REALLY FAST
and grab her husband and they split like a tree in a lightning storm.

One of the guys that lives on my block....
sees me throwing away a headboard.
He picks it up, and is going to walk up the hill home.
I offer him a ride. We go. He takes the headboard up to is house, and asks me to give him a ride to get Beer and Cigarettes. I say I have some beer at home. So we go back to my house, I give him 4 beers out of my 6 pack, and then I start to take him to the gas station for his cigarettes.
He proceeds to ask me for the money for the cigarettes.

DOES THE WORD "SUCKER" flash above my head?
Am I a complete and utter asshole?

My Mom and Dad say that when I was a kid I gave all my milk money away to the kids who didn't have milk money.
One day the teacher came to our house
with a shit load of dimes in her hand.
(Wow! doesn't that mean that my teacher copped that money from the poor kids?)

So, I ask you....

Would you pick up a hitch hiker today?
Would you let a stranger come in and use your phone?
Do you leave your front door open after 6 pm?
Do you put real pumpkins outside for Halloween decor?
Do you help anyone stuck on the side of the road?

My heart breaks to answer NO to all of the above.
I have been in this home for 2 years.
Already something was stolen from our front yard.
My heart is broken.
My Faith is shook.
and it hurts.

STEP BACK FROM THE MC GARBAGE!

2008-10-12T02:51:00.005-04:00

This McDonalds Monopoly Game has
GONE TO FAR!
I find myself dreaming of different ways I can get codes.

You see, you get these codes that contain numbers and letters.
The codes are on the side of the box of Large Fries,
Large Drinks, Chicken Sandwiches.....yada yada.

You can play Monopoly on a game board
Mc Donalds gives you for free, and you play online.
I am doing BOTH.
I AM A CODE FIEND!!
But have I gone to far????

SO far I have won damn Coke Awards, and 2 hours of FREE WIFI! $$$$I WANT THE DAMN MONEY!! $$$$

NOTE: If anyone wants my coke awards or free WIFI redemption write to me!
Italya44@aol.com

I will be glad to give you the email I got with directions to redeem these.

You see, McDonalds banks on lazy people,
or people that just don't give a damn. They print up limited numbers of
certain properties on the monopoly board. One of the MOST precious is "BOARDWALK". Basically if you get that piece you are sure to win HUGE! Many people throw away their game pieces,
thus, Barb's tushy in the McTrashy!

I decided what I want for my 41 st birthday.
I need time with my Music Producer.

I have a song that has been calling at me to come to life.
(outside of my head that is.)

I wrote the song when I was around 13 maybe 14.
I did a re-write when I was in my mid twenties,
and it has been haunting me ever since.

It's coming soon Cousin Bill....
PROMISE.

2008-10-11T00:14:00.004-04:00

So I find myself in the local Rite Aid today.
I was on my calm and quiet way to the pharmacy counter to pick up Penny's meds. My foot was really giving me problems the past 2 days, so I was taking things slow. Then I looked up in front of me and I saw her. "SHE" must have been at least 85 -86 years old. She was slowing my pace to a near crawl.
I couldn't stand the pace, yet I knew it was the best thing for my foot. I couldn't squeeze my fat ass past her yet, as she carried one of those small plastic hand baskets,
so I had to wait for the opportune time to do it. I felt my left eyebrow raise. I licked my lips. My body weight shifted to the right.

This was indeed the time. I SPLIT TO THE RIGHT. I literally RAN down the next isle
hoping to beat her age old ass to the pharmacy counter.
Knowing that if I got stuck behind her again I'd be at Rite Aide FOREVER.
.......As I am running I trip over my own feet
I slide into the line AT THE PHARMACY.
NO SLOW OLD LADY IN SITE!!

I did it! I beat her ass!
As I stand waiting to be the next one up,
I think about what a total JACKASS I just was.
Has my life come to this.
WANTING TO BEAT AN OLD FART
TO THE PHARMACY COUNTER?
This was my new kick?
My challenge in life?

Just then I was called by the pharmacist.
I got Penny's meds, hung my head low, walked across the store
and grabbed the front door to leave.

AND I SWARE I HEARD A TINY CHUCKLE,
SO I TURNED MY HEAD AND.....

Yup, she had checked out,
and just sat there waiting for me to leave.
The Old Fart had BEATEN ME!

2008-10-09T22:41:00.007-04:00

Freakin' Mc Donalds has this Monopoly Game out again.

Now, I've NEVER paid attention or played this before ....but now....I'm a PLAYER!!
So I am putting this out there for all who are playing the 2008 McDonalds Monopoly....
These are the pieces I have. Park Place, Atlantic Ave, Oriental Ave, Reading RR, and States Ave.
So if anyone wants to partner up.... LET'S DO IT!!

Remember back last year when I was so proud of myself
because I put in a new faucet all by my lonesome?
WELL.....
We used to hook up an attachment to the faucet
to change the water in the fish tank. (back when we had the fish)

Well, one of the times we hooked up the attachment for the fish tank, we broke something, and from then on the faucet leaked. We had to put a little garbage can under the sink to catch the water. (Not to mention the dern handle would slowly go down and shut the water off on you....
a manufacturers problem!)

I was so upset. So..... I fixed that problem last night.
We got a NEW FAUCET, and I installed it PERFECTLY!On the other hand.... I built an Avon Book Box for the peeps in my hood! (Lol)
I loaded it up with Avon Books and Special Flyers and some Samples.

We bought this box at The Christmas Tree Shop, and it had Santa, and Snowflakes, and the full blown Christmas Theme. I put some Acid Tone on a rag and went to town! I took the light blue color and Christmas Stuff off, and then re-painted it a Dark Blue to contrast the house.
I built a post and then screwed the post to the metal stake I hammered into the ground. TA-DA!!

And it's that time of year to SHUT THE WATER OFF!! I say this with gusto because last year I managed to rack up a $200.00 water bill! As a newby homowner I was terrified of the pipes freezing, and had no idea how to do this. NOT THIS YEAR BABY!

Do you see this BLUE BOOB
WITH THE HUGE NIPPLE
Sticking out of my house?

I turned the water off from the basement.
I bled the pipe....I Glady'st my Pips, and NOW.....
I am insulated on the outside with this modern boob cover,
and my inside pipes are wearing an insulated silver coat!

Now I am ready....
BRING IT ON MOTHER NATURE!!
As a matter of fact....

PULL MY FINGER!!

NOT One for the Gipper Nan!

2008-10-07T22:23:00.004-04:00

Well.... Today was NOT one of my better days. Health wise that is.
Not sure if it is even worth mentioning this, but what the hell.....
I started smoking again about 2 weeks ago,
well it really didn't give me the kick I'd missed, so I quit again today.

Seems easier to cut it at the pass
before months go by and it would be harder to stop.

I managed to mow the front and back lawns today. I am literally counting down "the mows" until winter starts! I actually look forward to the cold and the snow. They give me a break from yard work!

I prepared the front of our home in Fall / Halloween fashion!

We are proud of the outcome!

My Little Girl is a BOY!

2008-10-07T01:33:00.004-04:00

Some people know from the jump "what they are".
Others need more time.
Some, Never quite find their true identity.
and then there are those that just take things in stride
and go with the flow.

Today I found out that my Bearded Dragon,
the one I have been calling "she" and "her"
And came to me with the name "Daisy".... is a MALE.

So the first thing I thought to do was to change "her" name. After all, a BOY named "Daisy" surely would create some ridicule. I didn't want to put "him" through this. So Penny and I went through some names: Dudley, I thought was close to Daisy, and really wouldn't confuse "her" to much. Juan is close to Daisy's middle name Juanita....
and then the final thought was Vito.

Okay, so I took "HIM" out of his home, and held him.
Bearded Dragons love to be held by humans now just for the company and attention they love, but also our body heat.

I put "Vito" on my chest and he crawled up snuggling my neck.
It was time for me to tell "Daisy Juanita" the story, of how the people we got HIM from thought he was a she....
and gave HIM the female name "Daisy"....

I began "THE TALK"....
As I stumble for words for this AWESOME and Beautiful face,
that seems to hold this innocent "smile"....
I stopped talking, and "SAW THE LIGHT" so to speak.

The light that was my past....
The carnival when I was 8 years old, and I won a prize.
I could pick out anything on the table I wanted.
I chose a toy rifle.

My mom's friend Bonnie (who had 2 sons) veered me away from the toy rifle.
Bonnie explained that it was "A BOYS TOY" and to go on and pick something else.
I wanted the toy rifle.

I remember at 11 years old wanting a
leather jacket like the Fonz on "Happy Days".
The one I got was blue and had flowers on it.
I wanted the boys black one.

Thoughts of peer pressure to wear a dress,
when that was NEVER who I was flashed before me.
and suddenly I came to realize that my bearded dragon SON shouldn't have to be called something HE is not used to.

Mommy Loves him as he is....
and I'll be damned if I change ANYTHING
about my SON....

DAISY JUANITA.

Damn Pumkin Time - The Madam LIVES!

2008-10-06T02:26:00.004-04:00

I have been getting emails from people on YOU TUBE asking to see more of my Elvis impersonation....So I made 2 video's tonight. One of me learning the song "Seperate Ways" and another of me singing "Rags To Riches". Both video's were shot in the Jungle.
I had fun with it, I hope you all do to!

Well.... I have learned not to mess with Penny where pumpkin carving is concerned. Tis' that time of year again, and you will see our next victim
I mean the pumpkin we chose to carve!

Yup, soon I will be holding pumpkin goo in my hands
with a smile on my face, and pumpkin seeds
scattered across my kitchen table!
Ooooh, CAN'T WAIT FOR THAT!!

Nicky's DaughterSon Lives!!

So Penny hears a POP....and calls my name.
Well, turns out that a light fixture downstairs popped, sparked, and then the circuit blew.

FEAR NOT I SAY!

I WENT TO THE N.R.D.P SCHOOL OF ELECTRIC!

Don't let the electrical tape throw you!
LET THERE BE LIGHT!!

GO NICKY....
GO NICKY....

**** This blog post neither endorses or discounts the accreditation of the NRDP School of Jack Of All Trades in NY State or any of his broads. Moreover the NRDP School of Jack Of All Trades is in NO WAY shape or form affiliated with the NRDP School Of BS, in the common wealth of wheydafakami .... the tribe of his people.****

A Live Band OR Career End? Doctor Crazy!

2008-10-05T01:53:00.009-04:00

I sold ALL of my Elvis Jumpsuits.... My Gold and Silver Elvis International Belts.... and in my mind, I was silently preparing or siding toward retiring from my Madam Elvis career.

I sold the Jukebox in my Jungle Room, sold the pachinko machine, my fortune teller machine. The Jungle Room was in a bit of a shambles.

The other night I went down to the Jungle Room, and really took stock in what was there, and what I really wanted. I started taring down, and hanging up, straightening up, changing up.... and I realized how much I loved that room, and how much I LOVED performing in the Elvis voice God has given to me.

So that night, I came upstairs, and got on the computer. I wrote a heartfelt letter to my drummer Randy. Randy lives in Elmira about 2 hours away from me. I never met anyone like Randy. Or Austin. Austin was my penis...or Pianist. We still aren't sure which.

When I met these two, my life truly changed. I found my inner Elvis so to speak. Well, Randy wrote me back, and we are going to talk in length about putting together a live show, and touring as a Madam Elvis act. I just cannot retire yet. So look for updates. Right now, Randy and his awesome wife are in Maine for a week, and when he comes back, we will have our long awaited conversation.

On the other hand, take a look at how big our peaches got! Not bad for planting the tree in May, and by the end of August we got these.... Penny is going to need neck surgery. I'm not thrilled about this. Any kind of surgery is a risk, but neck/spinal surgery holds more risks than I care to ponder. I mean if the surgeon sneezes, BAM your peeing down your leg, and dancing the macarana on your knees every time the teapot goes off!

And my God what if the anestesiologist had gas? LOL! (I just made a funny!)

So the Doc. says.... You need the surgery to relieve the pain because your discs are pressing on your nerves .... you will be in a hard neck collar for 4-6 weeks after the surgery then you need physical therapy for another 6-8 weeks.....BUT this may NOT relieve the pain!

No wonder Doctor's drive people NUTS!

Alive, Well and Sweet....

2008-10-02T22:53:00.008-04:00

Ok, so I haven't posted in about 1 month....

LOTS going on that should have been posted but, I am a lazy bitch,
therefore I need to update you now!

1. We got 2 new baby bearded dragons. These were sisters.
We named them Angel Lynn and Gracie Lynn.

2. I put Daisy Juanita our 10 month old bearded dragon in with Angel and Gracie to visit, to see if they got a long. They truly did.

So, I decided to keep Daisy Juanita IN the tank with them overnight.
All went well....So I left Daisy in there for another night.
This however was a TRAGIC MISTAKE.

I found Gracie dead. It looks like Daisy Juanita crushed her.
This was NOT DONE on purpose, but when you have 1 LARGE Dragon, and 2 babies, this is a DIRE CONSIDERATION.

Gracie must have climbed UP the branch to sleep. When she was sleeping, Daisy Juanita climbed up the same branch crushing Gracie, and then went to sleep on the offshoot of that same branch.

3. Mom and Dad sold their home in Manorville
and BOUGHT a NEW one in North Carolina!

4. It is now October 3rd, and I am ready for Halloween!
No last minute candy to run out for like last year.
I refuse to be caught with my goobers out!
(and yes, Penny and I ARE going to wear costumes to greet the kids at the door!)

And.... We are NOT giving up ANY of our dogs.
We did try....we just can't.

That's it for now. I am bushed!

Decisions....Decisions....& Business....

2008-09-04T02:15:00.014-04:00

HE WILL BE MISSED....

But not by me....

JUNIOR ISN'T GOING ANYWHERE!!
I had the opportunity today to respond to someone who desperately wanted a yorkie. One that would go everywhere with her, and even have his own yard and be the ONLY dog.

When I even thought about sending the photo above of Junior to her, my heart sank, I felt my heartbeat in my face, and I felt the tears well up in both eyes. I just CAN'T. and I WON'T.

Now, onto another topic.
I think I just recruited a mother and her 15 year old daughter

to deliver my Avon books.
All 300 of them! I will drive....they will do the foot work!

All the Mom wants is excersize and a cup of coffee, and all the daughter wants is $$ CHA-CHING $$
So, for $30.00 they do the leg work once a month.

This will help me a lot!

Now, do you remember when I told you about the wholesale business, and my eBay listings. Well, I cancelled ALL 53 of my auctions, and cancelled my membership to that wholesaler.

I have been going cross-eyed on the internet looking for quality products for the LOWEST possible prices. WHAT A DAMN Nightmare that is!

EVERYONE and their mother are in business for wholesale prices, so if you go on google and pop in "Wholesale" be prepared to put on a few pots of coffee and eat some dry crackers! You are definately going to be there a LONG....LONG....Time!!

****Results straight from google: 218,000,000 for wholesale****

You can look up "wholesale, liquidation, bargain, close-out, overstock, warehouse, dropship, clearance.... and you will go BLEARY EYED, and start drinking anything near your computer. I hear that's what happend to Michael Jackson.... He started sucking on the "White Out" bottle! Hey, this could have happend. Poor bastid gets whiter with each passing year! I think Mike looks like a cross between Diana Ross & The Child Catcher in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang!

Crap.... AM I OFF TOPIC AGAIN?

The cable guy(s) came today. We got 2 new places to move the TV now. We had one of the guys drill 2 holes through the living room floor, and the other guy gave us a new DVR because the other one was acting like Cybil at a 4 way intersection!

We got news that our Angel Lynn

will be shipped out from North Carolina

to her new home here on Monday.

Angel's arrival is next Tuesday.

You may be asking yourself, gee, your thinking of down sizing

on your 6 dogs, yet your getting another Beardie.

These are a horse of a different color so to speak.

They don't bark, or bite ankles they don't have accidents on your carpet.

They don't need to be changed everyday, and they are

VERY LOW maintenance.

AND YES PATTI.... We still haveour little old man "Stewie".

Fancy mice have a short lifespan of 1 1/2 to 2 years.

In October we will have "Stew" for 2 years.

God bless the lil' mouse bastid!

Yes, Stewie will remain here for the rest of his life.

Just as Emily and Junior will.

................ more as it comes...........

We still have A LOT to think about.

~Barb

2008-09-02T17:32:00.004-04:00

EAST BOUND AND DOWN....
Heaven Bound....

Jerry Reed known to me as B-A-N-2 Passed away Monday Morning.
This talented soul was not only a funny spirit, but one heck of a storytelling songwriter.
Like Dolly Parton, this guy could really give you a vivid picture in your mind through a song.

God Bless Ya Son, we are 10 10 on the side good buddy.
I know you are resting at that AWESOME choke and puke in the sky!!

Well, here's an at home update.
Not sure how I am going to survive it, but I know I will somehow.

We have 6 dogs.
They are loved beyond words.

But I must cut down.
I find myself not being able to do what I used to do,
and what was once a joy has become a hard chore and it hurts us all.

The logical dogs to keep would be Emily Sue, Lilly Jo and Junior.
These were the 1st ones in, and the oldest.

BUT....

There are adoption issues we must consider in this.
Who is adoptable and who may not be.

So the decision is a heart breaker, and one we must make soon.

On the other side of the fence so to speak is our wood stove is GONE!
The man disassembled it and even took the horrible cement block off of our floor!
Photo's to follow once we get the living room settled.

We also disassembled our fish tank.
We re-homed the 3 fish and 1 snail we had to wonderful people.

I can ASSURE YOU this.
Rocky and Lucy are staying.
Emily Sue is staying.
Daisy Juanita is Staying.

GOD GIVE ME THE WISDOM AND THE STRENGTH TO DO WHAT IS BEST FOR THE ANIMALS ABOVE ALL ELSE.

Barb

Just For Funzies....Changing it up....

2008-08-30T01:03:00.008-04:00

Hello Again!
Since last we spoke....

Just for Funzies I decided to join a wholesale warehouse and start selling some stuff.
Not sure about it though to be honest.
I'm not so thrilled with their "wholesale" prices, but their jewelry is FANTASTIC, a bit to
"HIGH END" for me.
The ring below is up for sale now in my eBay. Here is the description:
This 14k two tone bridal ring makes a great addition to any jewelry collection and can be worn on different occasions. This ring is multi set with 45 multi shape diamonds. The diamonds have a total carat weight of 1.00 carats. The diamonds are GHI color and SI-I1 clarity. The total metal weight of this ring is 9.07 grams. This item is shipped out in a beautiful black velvet jewelry box and a free white jewelry polishing cloth. A jewelry certificate of authenticity is also included to insure that the jewelry provided is genuine and in compliance with United States Gold Quality Standards. SIZE 6 in stock.

READY FOR THE PRICE? $1,800.99

I expected to sell middle of the road, not so expensive. I am always in search of getting the lowest prices for my peeps, and this just doesn't do it for me.

PLEASE look for my new website in the near future with GREAT Discount deals on it. I am really busting my hump on researching a TON of places for the right prices, and quality merchandise.

Remember, AVON products at SPECIAL rates will also be available for purchase on my new site.

I will be selling everything from cases of Sparklers to Southwestern Style Coats & Vest to Jewelry, TV's, Music Studio Equipment, Instruments, Pet Toys ....Candles and Spa items so you can Feng Shuay yourself into a relaxing coma!!

Now.... Onto the changing it up portion.

This is our wood stove.
Tomorrow (well today!) this is coming out of our living room. We are going to replace this with an Electric Fireplace.
We are also ripping out the jacuzzi,
and replacing it with a stand up shower. This will be easier on me when I can't make it up stairs to shower.
This is also better for when Mom and Dad come to visit as well.

I better go to sleep now. It is now 2:05 am, and the guy is coming to kick the crap out of the wood stove at 9 am.

She's Down.... No.... SHE'S DOWN!

2008-08-23T03:35:00.005-04:00

Okay. It's FRIDAY.
The end of a hard week, therefore we MUST END IT HARD!
Penny woke up not feeling great, but willing to push her way thru work.
UNTIL THE FALL.

Penny was getting dressed and she fell, hurting her arm, hip,
and her sha-lay-lee!

Penny stayed home, laid down, and went to bed.While Penny lay sleeping, I decided to go to the Post Office and pick up the 3 articles that I needed to sign for (My AVON Business Cards came in!!) and then I went to pick up Penny's medication. From there I decided to go to the dollar store and pick up some greenery, and I also got some Halloween treat bags, and toys (never to early to prepare!)

I was tired BEFORE I left, but still I wanted to go to Petco, and pick up some things for our new Beardie "Angel Lynn" ( I want her home to be all set up for her arrival next week).

Then I headed over to "Ollie's" a new store that opened.
This was a liquidation place, LOADS to look at.

I started to walk around, I got to look at the left, the back and the right side of the store. I wanted to go up the middle isle, but I suddenly felt overwhelmed, and nauseated.

I decided to just get my ass over to the check out line.
Well.... I had 2 women in front of me.
I kept hearing the cashier saying
"WOULD YOU LIKE TO SIGN UP TO BE IN OLLIE'S ARMY"
You get discounts with this card....

Finally it was my turn, and the cashier said would you please excuse me....

He leaves for at least 10 minutes.
In that time, I felt myself.......
(well, I didn't actually "FEEL MYSELF")

I felt shaky, sweaty, and then BAM I hit the floor.
The cashier from 3 lanes away came running,
the customer's were concerned and standing around.

(My cashier was nowhere to be found!!)

And the woman said that BY LAW they needed to call an ambulance!

Well, there I lay on the floor of the bargain store,
the EMT's checking my pulse, and asking me if I am a diabetic....
They asked if I wanted to go to the hospital, I SAID NO!

ALL I seemed to give a damn about was my Ollie's Army Discount card!
I wanted MORE SAVINGS!!

I managed to drive back home, and rest.
hey, I got my damn Ollie's card!!
That is really all I WANTED!!

Adult Day Care Facilities for the ....well....ME!

2008-08-22T02:31:00.004-04:00

Hello FRIENDS AND FAMILY!

Last week, and this week have been a little rough over here, as you may have read.
BUT there were blessings and bright spots as well.

As you read, our blind 2 year old bearded dragon Misty Lynn passed away in the beginning of this week. We are still in disbelief and we are still feeling the loss.

1/2 hour after Misty Lynn passed away, I wrote to the wonderful woman "Lynn" who gave us Misty. I had told her of our loss, and just wanted to inform her.

In Lynn's letter back to me, she shared our sorrow and shock of Misty's passing, and offered us yet another blessed gift.
In a few days after her tail heals from being "bit", Lynn is sending us an 8 week old female Bearded Dragon we appropriately named
"ANGEL LYNN".

We look forward to raising her, and loving her.
______________________________________________

Now.... On to what I left out about last week.
I had an MS episode last week.
One where I had my "word salad".
I try to say something, and something
COMPLETELY DIFFERENT comes out.
This is a scary thing.
I was home alone, so I took Penny's work number with me, and wrote a note to show my neighbor. I needed Penny to come home.

Well, I took my walker, and hobbled to my neighbor. NO one was home. So I went down to one more neighbor, knocked on their door, NO ONE was home. I took another chance, and hobbled with my walker to yet ANOTHER neighbor, and HE WASN'T home as well.

This was an emotional experience.
Can't communicate, and no one around.
Well.... I got thru it....
Not only did I get thru it, but Penny and I were driving the other day and I spotted something I have never seen before.

I've heard of Doggie Daycare.... Child Daycare....
But ADULT DAY CARE?

So I joked with Penny, and I said "That's What I need".
No sooner did I say it and BAM!

I LIKE ADULT DAY CARE!!

The Dragon...The Cat...and The Website

2008-08-19T23:15:00.008-04:00

First Off....Whooooooooooosh!
I know I haven't posted since August 7th.
Did you know that Aug. 5th was Loni Anderson's Birthday?
Loni is 63 this year!
(Gee, THOSE..... I mean SHE don't look 63!!)

I have been away from MY website to create another.
I had posted on Craig's List:
"If anyone needs help write to me, I am home all day".
Well.... Someone DID write to me with a request.
I was to build a website for a homemade candle business.
Building the website took its toll on me.
I would stay up all and all night, barely taking breaks, eating in front of the computer. Making unending calls to tech support. Learning how to be my own tech support.

Here is the result of hours, and hours of fun, agony, tiredness,and creative energy. www.CandlesByShacore.com

Go there, check it out and GRAB some awesome candles!Now..... THE RECOVERY part
Again my schedule was "off" sleep wise.
I've had to tend to my AVON Business, Keep and Maintain the house and the lawns. I do Thank God that Penny has helped me through by doing things around the house with me.

Now the house is kept, the lawns are kept,
and the Avon business is growing.
THEN....
BAM!
A Nightmare Day.
Our Bearded Dragon "Misty Lynn" looks pale, and is lethargic.
We call MANY vet's in the area to get her in ASAP.
Some want to charge us "DOUBLE" to get her seen right away.
They say in their defense that "IF WE SQUEEZE YOU IN, IT WILL CONSTITUTE AN EMERGENCY VISIT" therefore doubling the cost to walk in the door.

I was to concerned and worried about Misty to tare them a new asshole on the phone.... So Penny made the calls, and I kept an eye on Misty Lynn.

Then came the seizures. My poor baby started flailing around her arms and legs, and head in her cage. I got her blankie, and gently picked her up and wrapped her in it, and messaged her back to calm her down.
(It worked).

Then Penny darts out of her chair and says "we got one"
"we gotta go now". We took Misty to the Doctor who said her prognosis was "Grim", but her gave her sub-q fluids, and some antibiotics 2x per day. We got Misty home, and gave her the meds, and made her comfortable. Misty passed away a few hours later. We were devestated.

CHAPTER 3
THAT DAMN CAT!

With all of the attention, and worry, and heartbreak
that went along with tending to Misty during the afternoon and early evening.... we didn't realize we had another hurtle to go through.

Our pusskitten "Rocky" decided to SPLIT the scene yesterday.
We let him out around 6pm, and at 3 am I stand drenched outside calling his name through the raindrops.
NOTHING.

We NEVER go to bed without Rocky IN the house. Except last night.
So today I walked up and down and around the blocks.
I took my handicap scooter up and down and around the blocks TWICE.

I found a black and white cat stuck in a tree! I called 911, but they said cops and firemen don't do that!

BUT AGAIN.... NO ROCKY.

Finally at 10:10 pm I look out my back door, and THERE IS ROCKY!
I hugged and kissed the lil' bastid!
He was so hungry he ate, and ate.

Then he wanted to go out again!
I solved this....
I double tagged the bastid!
Now Rocky wears a safety collar, a regular collar, My Elvis Presley Graceland Gates keychain, and his name tag and home info. around his neck........not to mention THE ANNOYING BELL!

Don't MESS WITH A FAGGY DADDY!!
I'll DOUBLE TAG YOUR ASS!

A Crazy Little Thing Called BLOG....

2008-08-07T23:06:00.004-04:00

"Barb's Quotable Quote"

"There are those people that are good in math....Then there is me."
- B.A. Del Piano 2008.

Today I was asked what happened to the rest of the Avon books I had yet to deliver.
As a matter of fact, today was Penny's day off, so we hit the trails again, going door to door.

The only snag....The thunder, the lightning AND the rain!

But how does that darn creed go again....

Neither hale, nor slate, nor monthly cramps....
Shall keep me from ramming these Avon books up someone's AsssIsaid...

I walked....
And Penny walked....
And the rain came down....

And I slipped on the wet rain.....
And Penny hopped from puddle to puddle from house to house....

But in all honesty. I put a stop to it. The rain wouldn't let up, and although we only have about 100 more to go, the weather was crazy.

I will finish these soon!!
Gotta go night night....the meds kicking in.

Oh.....THE PAIN

2008-08-04T00:19:00.004-04:00

Here is the update from the 440 Avon Book Mishap.

Penny WALKED....
AND I WALKED....We managed to deliver over 250 books today.
We are in PAIN.
Maybe that electric wheelchair would have come in handy today!
On Penny's next day off, we are going to deliver the rest.

I gotta go lay down now. My body hurts and my meds are kicking in.

p.s. Did I mention that I had to UNLOAD all of the books from the car, and Penny and I had to buy little labels, and date stampers??

YUP.... I hand wrote the order due date WRONG on all 440 books!
So we had to take ALL 440 books OUT of their bags, stamp the date on the little labels, stick the labels OVER my goof, and then re-bag ALL OF THEM!

Yes.... I AM AN ASS.
GOOD NIGHT
and God Save The Queen!

OVER 440

2008-08-02T22:58:00.007-04:00

So....Today I got up early, got dressed, poured a cup of coffee.... hopped into my van, and thought of my Mom and Dad as I headed out to tackle Yard Sales.Last night I had printed up the directions to ALL of the Yard Sales, and mapped the whole route from one to the other in order of distance. DAMN I WAS EFFICIENT!

I arrived at my first Yard Sale.
I saw from across the street that it was a crappy one, but thought that maybe if I got out of the van and got a closer look, I would find a table THAT DIDN'T EXIST! ....WHAT A CRAP DUMP! This guy had "crap" strewn ALL over the place.
I looked at something, I wasn't quite sure that what I was seeing WAS really WHAT I was seeing.

He had a cardboard box of MEN'S UNDERWEAR....
$1.00 per pair....SLIGHTLY USED, Only a few tares!

I knew right there and then where my day was going!
But, I got right back in the van and PRESSED ON....

So much for high hopes! This next one was ALL baby stuff, and as hard as I tried, I couldn't get my body to fit into their tiny clothes! However, as I was walking around their garage, sifting through pacifier's and diaper bags, I hear a little girl say to her mother: "What's "HE" going to buy mommy?"

Onto the 3rd Yard Sale. A FULL BOX of empty tic tac little plastic boxes . USED TIC TAC BOXES??? What the hell are these people thinking??

GOD I MISS MY PARENTS!
Apparently I CAN'T DO THIS ALONE!

Finally God took pity on me, and talked to Mother Nature about sending RAIN to end MY Yard Sale PAIN!

Although MOST of the Yard Sales were Crappy, Here is what I got....

I got some stuffed animals for the Jungle Room, some VHS Tapes for the Jungle Room, and 2 photo albums! THAT was my take!

Now... For the title of this blog post. Why name it Over 440??

Well, as you are WELL AWARE by now, I just completed my 1st AVON order as an AVON REPRESENTATIVE.

I did a BOO BOO. I was SUPPOSED to order 4.... 10 packs of Avon books.

Totaling: 40 books.

NOPE.... Not ME. I ordered 40 packs of 10 = 400 Books.

THINKING I caught this mistake, I changed it to 4 packs of 10.
(In reality ORDERING MORE and not correcting my original mistake!)

Soooo. TONIGHT I stuffed over 440 door hanger plastic bags with Avon Books! (Stamping each one with my personalized name stamper!)

I loaded them into the car tonight, and Penny and I are going to deliver them ALL tomorrow!

I will keep ya posted!

G.O.M.A. vs. G.P.S.

2008-08-01T23:46:00.007-04:00

Before I jump into my day, and the storytelling....
I want to take some time to THANK YOU for reading what I have to say. This time with you means a lot to me.

Now I will jump into the day, the storytelling and the future.

I am sure most of you have heard of the GPS system. This system allows you to get INSTANT Directions to where you wish to go. GPS has also been known to LOCATE people, cars, cell phones.

Let me introduce you to a NEW system that I have been privy to for sometime now.

The research for this has been approx. 18 years in the making.
Introducing the GOMA system.

This is a system that Penny actually invented YEARS ago.
This is a patented time tested formula that NO ONE can duplicate.

GOMA Stands for GPS ON MY ASS.
The function of GOMA is easy and 100% accurate.

Penny will dial a phone number to where I am.
NO MATTER what time she calls, I have JUST SAT DOWN.

These calls are completely RANDOM.
GOMA has NEVER FAILED.
It doesn't matter if I am on a road trip....
I will stop at a rest stop,
go into a stall to pee, and my cell phone starts playing
BIG BOSS MAN by Elvis.

I am home. ALL day.
I work on the lawn, back and front,
I come into the house grab a cold drink, plant my fanny on the recliner,
and GOMA. The Telephone Rings!

Sometimes I have wondered where the camera was. Then I realized that the device must be planted to my ass.

and whenever a certain pressure is applied an alarm must go off wherever Penny is located at the time, and she CALLS!
GOMA. It REALLY WORKS!

Now.... Tonight I cooked BBQ chicken, sauteed garden fresh green beans, and garden grown garlic (from our neighbor God Bless Them!!)

I figured I would have it ready for when Penny comes home from work tonight.

Now, tomorrow is going to be my SALUTE to My Parents.
I am going to go to Yard Sales alone in my van tomorrow.
I will blast Tom Jones and Connie Francis, and Helen Reddy!
I will let you know if I find anything!

Barb

Spock is Barb's Jazzy Baby Daddy!

2008-08-01T00:32:00.003-04:00

Okay.... so my last post was an AVON commercial for my new Avon Business.
(by the way day or night go to OrderBarbsAvon.com for the BEST in Avon Deals!)

I really haven't "fully" updated you.
Mom and Dad came by for a nice weekend visit.
We went to the Salvation Army, and the Thrifty Shopper.
We even hit a few yard sales which was SHEER Heaven!

I don't think I have hit 2 yard sales here in Syracuse without my parents.
We tend to have a BLAST together in the car while tracking down
the deals, and Yard Sale Hopping!!

By the way, I finally found my baby photo and it explains A LOT!
But why is my daddy looking at me like that???

I am also enjoying looking through Craig's List everyday, either buying or selling.
I am also selling a few items on eBay.

I was looking at the Craig;s List ad's and came across a motorized chair.
This model is called a "Jazzy".
The dogs like going for rides in and out of the house.

Mom, Dad and Penny went in on this for me, and I would like to show you in REAL TIME so to speak how it works. So enjoy the video.

Avon Calling!

2008-07-31T01:54:00.003-04:00

Yup.... I'm taking it on for myself!
No more crazy Mary....
No pushy sales tactics....

I am now an AVON Representative!

Thank You For Being A Friend /More From Craig's

2008-07-24T02:18:00.005-04:00

THANK YOU FOR BEING A FRIEND!

I was saddened, and yet a part of me relieved that Actress Estelle Getty passed away this past Tuesday. Estelle had been suffering for years with severe dementia, a HORRIBLE thief of a disease. THANK YOU ESTELLE for the laughter, for the tears, for the entertainment.

....and of course

THANK YOU FOR BEING A FRIEND.

This Friday, July 25, from 12 noon to 5 pm et/pt, see a special on-air tribute to Estelle Getty, who played the cantankerous Sophia Petrillo on "The Golden Girls." Ms. Getty passed away on Tuesday, July 22, at age 84. We'll air 10 episodes showcasing the actress's character, Sophia, in all her blustering, sarcastic splendor. The final episode shown will be one picked by the fans, so vote for your favorite Sophia moment now.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------
I was on Craig's List again,
and I found a listing for a FREE ORANGE VALOUR Chair

So of course I thought, Tacky & Jungle Room!
(you will see little Minnie Mae
our Chihuahua in the corner of the photo!)

Me sitting in the chair with "Samson"
The Huge Lion Momma Bee contributed to the Jungle!Is it tacky of me to put a POSTER of me in my own Jungle?
LOL!

Then I started showing Penny my Elvis Karate Moves....

SO MUCH FOR TRYING TO IMPRESS HER AFTER 18 YEARS!!
LOL!!

I didn't get a perm!

2008-07-23T02:47:00.003-04:00

I changed the light sensor outside!
When we moved in, we had this broken white light fixture that hung like an oblong ball on a wild cat!
I saw an ad on Craigslist for a sensor light for $5.00!
I went and picked it up, and decided to try my hand at Electric!
I did this in about 15 minutes, and NOPE, No electrical shocks, and NO PERM!!

I never said I didn't get an AFRO!

Lol

2008-07-15T00:50:00.003-04:00

Okay.... I screwed up ROYALLY!

You see, my Bravenet Account was set to expire on July 9, 2008.

I really didn't want to renew, after all, I have you all coming right here to read about my life! (Oooh, how sweeet it is!)

Soooooooo I decided to play smart....

(something I try very hard not to do!)

I decided to keep the domain name that I purchased from Bravenet (The www.Barbara DelPiano.com name) and re-direct the url address www.madamelvis.blogspot.com to the www.BarbaraDelPiano.com address.

In doing so, I made this blog disappear,

along with my post from last night!

Now, to all those who are reading this now....

I have Multiple Sclerosis, and Fibromyalgia.

I survived ovarian cancer. I quit smoking, I am losing weight.

Life is very short.

I WANT THIS.....

This is my ULTIMATE FAVORITE ELVIS JUMPSUIT.

THIS IS ON EBAY NOW.

FOR A MERE $1,400.00 This Dream of mine could become a reality.

Again Life is short.

I have been blessed .

BLESS ME MORE DAMN IT!!

(Ok, that was my best plea!)

Gotta Catch Up....

2008-07-11T20:31:00.006-04:00

***Update: Momma Suzanne is OUT of the hospital as of today.***
Momma Suzanne had 2 stints put into her heart artery.

Now for a bit of catching up on a Very Special Delivery.

WHAT COULD BE INSIDE??

Yes. A blind Bearded Dragon named "Misty".

I had found a FANTASTIC cabinet in the Salvation Army.
Which, by the way....what the hell happened?
(Is it the gas prices?)

We have a Salvation Army and a Thrifty Shopper close by.
This was such a blessing when we first moved here about 1 1/2 years ago.
Flannel shirts $1.99 or $2.99.
I got the sectional couch in my Jungle room for $20.00.
2 glass end tables, and a matching glass coffee table for $10.00.

Now....

I inquired about a wicker rocking chair that I expected to be $5.99
and the woman says : $35.00!

I almost crapped!
ONE wicker chair!!
no matching sets, no sheet of gold lying underneath it.

Flannel shirts: $3.99 or $5.99.

Between that and Hillary Clinton being pushed aside like
"The Little Woman"
AMERICA IS ON THE FAST TRACK
TO HELL IN A HAND BASKET!

Well, enough of my little rant!
The cabinet that I picked up from the Salvation Army was $69.99 to me a JOKE of a price, but I needed the way this was constructed.

The few minor changes it needed to accommodate my needs,
I did on my own in the living room.

Daisy Juanita is on the top, and Misty Lynn is on the bottom.
This is an EASY cleaning system for me,
as these homes have their own glass doors.
and under them is a huge storage space.

I am hoping to work on Penny's Craft Room next week.
I already did 80% of the spackeling,
I bought the paint months ago on a gift card.
I have nice ideas for the space to be more functional for her.

I also want to work on our bedroom.

We'll see.
I picked up a nice duvet set and 6 candle holder from the man who introduced us to Minnie Mae.

I'm tired now.
Gonna go and eat some left over bbq chicken from last night, and some rice and beans!

The bbq and AN UPDATE

2008-07-05T16:47:00.004-04:00

The 4th of July bbq at the Del Piano's!

I started this post on Saturday afternoon, about 5 pm.
I had every intention of writing to you about what a GREAT BBQ we had, and the nice time we had....and more "beardie news".

Now, it is 4:10 am, and Penny and I just got back from the Cardio Care Unit in the hospital, where my mother in law was admitted.

Seems Momma Suzanne was having pain every time she ate. This was going on for about 10 days, but she only told us Thursday.

Tests that were run, came back showing that Suzanne had a heart attack, or 3 heart attacks. They are going to keep her until AT LEAST Monday, when they do a cardio cathiderazation.

If they find a blockage they could put a balloon or a stent put in.
I am going to go to bed soon. I am so tired my eyes are drooping.

Barb

Ass Twitchin Heart Stoppin BASTID

2008-07-04T03:19:00.012-04:00

WEEK 4 ON WEIGHT WATCHERS:
LOST 4 1/2 LBS.
TOTAL WEIGHT LOSS: 21 Lbs. so far.

These are our 4th Of July Mums!
HAPPY 4th of July Everyone!

In the news I happen to notice that
Mr. Larry Harmon passed away.
Mr. Harmon played "BoZo ThE cLoWn"

This wasn't the BoZo I remember.
Yes, the same "clown".
But not the man "behind" the makeup.

The BoZo I knew was played by a man named
BBBBBOB BBBBell.
(I mean Bob Bell. )

That bastid' clown!
The one that scared the crap out of me....
The clown that made me bury my face in my pillow
when I was a kid.... in sheer terror.
The two orange/red horn shaped tufts of hair
coming out the sides that ugly SOB's head!

My BoZo died back in 1997
(when Bob Bell passed away),
and through the CANYONS OF MY BIG FAT BRAIN
I SCREAMED
"SOOO LONG SUCKA"
I spit on your size 22 floppy shoes. I LAUGH because you are no longer here
to have Barbara Del Piano accidently
"make boom boom in her pants"
every time your evil haired....
crusted narley toe'd....
bug eyed....
big red booger nosed
clown face hits the screen!

I guess what I'm really trying to say is:
To Bob Bell & Larry Harmon:
I truly WILL remember you for the rest of my life!

My New Friend

2008-06-28T00:40:00.008-04:00

Week 3 weight watcher's lost another 1 1/2 lbs.
(total loss so far 16 1/2 lbs.)
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MICHELLE!!

My baby bearded dragon "Daisy Juanita"
in her water dish/ pool. Taken today.
At the moment, Daisy is sitting on my lap
in a blankie with a heating pad underneath.
She's nice and cozy warm, and I'm boiling like
a western omlet!

We got that 50 gallon free reptile tank.
I set it up yesterday.

Below you will see Daisy on her new driftwood....
she looks like she is the Captain of a ship!
Penny and I went down to Ononadaga Lake
the other day, and collected some "driftwood".
When I got home, I boiled it up, and sanitized it.

Then I took the pieces into the garage,
fired up my sawz-all and my electric screw driver,
and built this cool wooden climbing / basking maze.
I went to the thrift shop yesterday, and picked up
a nice wooden stand with a shelf underneath, and it's
also on wheels! I also got a mini quilt to put on this stand
and then put the tank on it.

I also made a trip to Petsmart, and bought a new basking lamp
and UVB night lamp for her.
I saw Daisy basking today,
and it was such a beautiful site.
Daisy's mouth was agape, and she enjoyed her basking time.

Today I didn't have a good day.
I didn't get up until 4pm. Then I could barely move.
I used the walker today, my legs were bad.

I cannot tell you how comforting it was to hold "Daisy"
today, and have the dogs on my lap.
Believe me, if you would have told me that
I would be holding a reptile, no less own one,
I would have thought you were NUTS!

I NEVER had an interest in reptiles.
I cannot believe how responsive they are.
I highly recommend a Bearded Dragon.
Bearded Dragon's live about 10 years.

I just hope that my new friend will have
a WONDERFUL LIFE here
with her new family....Who adores her!

I can't think of a title

2008-06-24T23:45:00.009-04:00

I need more candles!
God how I love to burn baby burn!
Spring, Summer, Winter, Fall doesn't matter.
Candles are a big part of my atmosphere at home.

As I get older, I find that flowers are also a large part of what I love to be surrounded by.
I never really knew what my favorite flower was.
I never wanted to choose "roses" because they are so common.
and I never wanted to choose "carnations" because my mom and my mom's mom leaned toward carnations, and I wanted to be "Unique".
Well....After MANY, MANY Years of trying to zone in on one type that would be my absolute favorite, I have to say CARNATIONS.

White carnations don't thrill me,
but the many different colors are amazing!
Blue, Peach, Red, Yellows, Greens, Purples....
Simply Stunning!

Penny and I are often asked,
do all of our animals get along?
And of course we both say "YES"
at the same time "IN STEREO"!

We have been amazed at what we have seen.
Our 3 legged Yorkie Poo Junior Angelo
sleeping with our Bearded Dragon Daisy Juanita.

Our former frog Vladdy with Lola Marie

Yes....
we are truly blessed
that all of our babies get along!

WHERE'S DAD?

2008-06-22T23:35:00.012-04:00

Okay.... ENOUGH!!

It started last Wednesday.
I found a home for the fire belly frogs.
I wanted them gone asap.
because I knew they needed
someone better than me
to love and care for them.
I had committed the Dumpy's to a family already,
and the Fire Belly's were last to go.

I wrote to an animal rescue,
and a man named Brian replied back to me.
I told him that I am usually up late,
so he could come by later if need be to pick them up.

.....OK..... I left the computer to do the dishes.
THE SINK WOULDN'T DRAIN. There was a clog.
Penny and I took 2 plungers,
and worked on the double sink, to NO AVAIL.
At 11:30pm I get an email back from Brian
asking if he could come by NOW.
So, Brian shows up at Midnight to pick up his new fire belly frogs.
While he was here,
I asked him if he knew anything about PLUMMING!
So Brian went into our shit hole of a kitchen
(by then, everything from Under the sink was strewn across the floor, dirty dishes lie across the counter tops....)

Brian takes our kitchen "snake" and wiggles it down the pipe.
Then he runs the water, then he plunges,
then he takes apart the plumbing under the sink.

The whole time, he is talking, which is fine....
But....

Penny and I learned that:

1. Someone drove him to our home to pick up the frogs, which was fine, but the poor girl was waiting in the car.

2. The girl that drove him was his Girlfriend, which was fine, but he had a wife as well. All 3 lived together, and were a TRI-COUPLE.

3. We got to hear words that were disgusting, Graphic details abo ut what his girlfriend does to him....

Meanwhile, the water begins to drain OUT of the double sinks The plumbing underneath is leaking all over the floor, flooding our kitchen. He then gets beeped by the woman waiting for him in the car.... He goes outside, he comes back in, the woman winds up getting FED UP AND LEAVING HIM AT OUR HOUSE. To make a LONG STORY short, we drove him home at 2 am, got lost on the way back, and went to bed about 4 am.

THURSDAY COMES:
The alarm goes off, and we lay there until 12:15 pm.
The woman from the "Chasing Happiness" film
was due to come over at 1 pm.
The sink was drained, but still leaked underneath.
The dishes were still strewned all over the counter tops.
The house looked like a BOMB WENT OFF!

I took a shower, lit the candles in the Jungle Room,
and the doorbell rang. Ellen was 10 minutes early....
We filmed, I changed into my Elvis gear,
and broke the zipper to my Black Comet suit,
Put on my red suit, and sang "It's Now Or Never"

Ellen left, and then the family came
to pick up the Dumpy frogs.

FRIDAY COMES:
Penny and I go to the Doctor,
Then we take Minnie Mae to the vet to get her Rabies shot.
I take Penny to work.

I get gas for the van....
I head to that guy Brian's house to pick up a 50 gallon tank
that Brian had promised to give me the night
he was helping with the clogged sink.
I pull into his driveway, and MY VAN DIES.

I figure its just a wire, Brian and I fix it, I go home.

While home, I get under the sink, take crap apart
and try to fix it again. I found ANOTHER LEAK....

I had gone to Lowes earlier and got
a new gasket for the piping, and sealant.
I put everything back together, sealed it
and PRAYED!

The sealant WORKED!
I had cleaned the whole kitchen
I cleaned the house, and did the floors.

Now all I had to do was pick up Penny.
I grab Minnie Mae, and we head out in the van
Penny got out at Midnight, and I left at 11:50 pm.

The van DIES in the middle of the road about 2 blocks away.
I get out, and stick my noggin' under the hood, feel for the wire.
I can't see SHIT! It's dark, no one is around.
I finally realize that I have my jump box in the van!
I get that, prop it up in the engine and shine the little light
into the direction I need it.
I get a call on my cell from Penny, I tell her I had a little
Problem, but I AM ON MY WAY!

The van starts....I go.

I come up to the intersection.
The arrow turns green.
THE VAN DIES IN THE MIDDLE OF THE TURN.

There I am at midnight, Head stuck under the hood,
Hands full of black grease, some jackass' blowing their horns at me
and I begin to retrospect....

My Dad. Dad fixed the cars.
Dad walked to the nearest gas station while we waited in the car.
Dad fixed the pipes. Dad got things running again.
Dad unclogged things. Dad was the jack of all trades that was
always there to fix it, or carry the burden of it for us.

Now I laugh as my hands are filled with grease,
and I am twisting wires.
AND PRAYING, DON'T FORGET PRAYING!!
A large black man pushing a grocery cart
shouts to me, "AIN'T NOBODY GONNA HEP YA".
Again I keep laughing.
"ONLY IN AMERICA" he continues, and then passes.

I get another call on my cell from Penny.
It's now 12:30 am. I tell her to sit tight.
Finally, I GET THE VAN GOING, and pick up
my dear Penny at 1 am.

Now I know how my dad felt.

-Barb

Silly Monkey's Creating Happiness

2008-06-20T00:31:00.004-04:00

Week 2: I LOST 4 Lbs. on Weight Watchers
(15 lbs. total so far)

I WON! I WON! There was a contest, the question was if a human being yawns in front of a monkey, would the monkey yawn too? What do you think? I believe I get a t-shirt and some monkey poo!

The dumpy frogs went to their new home Thursday.
A mom, dad and 2 kids. Adorable family.
I know that they will do FANTASTIC with them.
The little boy and little girl held them, and loved them.

The fire belly's went to a new home as well last night.
So now we have just Daisy in her Jungle domain.

I finally got to meet Ellen, the Producer/Director of a new film called "Chasing Happiness". The same day that the frogs went home, I was filming in the Jungle Room with Ellen.

Here is the "trailer" for "Chasing Happiness"

JUNGLE LOVE.... Daisy MUST Stay.

2008-06-16T00:13:00.007-04:00

This has been a 1 1/2 year journey of trial and error .

And yesterday my journey ended. Happily. I feel "full" inside,

and I thank Penny for putting up with me!

When I decorated the Jungle Room
I knew I wanted a "mascot" to represent the "room".

I purchased a mouse named "Stewie".
Then I realized how "cold" it was down here,
and I brought "Stewie" upstairs,
and he's been there living happily ever since.

(he's almost 2 years old now!)

Then, I purchased my 2 wonderful Dumpy Frogs.
These guys are sweet, but....
You cannot really carry them around,
and they lack in interaction and play.
I TRIED. With all my heart. I tried.
and they too....needed extra heat.
( I bought the extra heat lamps, but it just wasn't enough)
So I brought them up to our living room.

(They are still there now, but they are going to their

New Forever home this Thursday.)

Then I met a bearded dragon named "Fred".
"Fred" was fully grown,

and he lived in the pet store we went to.

The owner had "Fred" ever since he was a hatchling.

I knew then and their, that this is what I was talking about.
A buddy to carry around on my shoulders, a little dude
to represent the Jungle Room. A Pal that is responsive.

BUT THEY TOO NEED HEAT.

I found and responded to an ad on Craig's List
for a male bearded dragon.

Turns out the male was no longer available,
but they had a 6 month old lemon female to adopt out.

I picked up our new family member "Daisy"
Saturday the 14th of June.
She came WITH her enclosure heat lamps, and UV lighting,

and the name "Daisy" which we are keeping.

Now I have a "QUEEN OF THE JUNGLE"

"Meet Daisy Juanita Del Piano"

In her new home in the Jungle

Everyone gets a bath!!

Daisy gets her nails clipped after her bath!

Wrapped in her powder pink bath towel !

Then we fall asleep on the recliner for about an hour!

WELCOME HOME DAISY JUANITA!

Happy Father's Day Daddy

2008-06-15T23:16:00.006-04:00

Dad.... HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!
This is the first year I am late in getting a card, and a gift over to you.
But PLEASE don't underestimate the LOVE, Respect, and Thankfulness I have for you.
I got this blue carnation arrangement from Penny, and wanted to share it with you.
I look at it, and think of you, and really FEEL the distance.

If I had the chance to hand pick ANYONE to be my dad,
I'd stick with you.
I have always admired and looked up to your strength, and faithfulness toward your family.
Your loyalty to Grumman, waking early every morning, pouring coffee over your cherrios, and heading off to work EVERY DAMN DAY so we could get the things we needed.

I know that my love of animals, that compassion for them is something WE SHARE.

Ever since I was a kid, you showed that compassion
and care for these little ones.
THANK YOU for that gift.

Thank You for being in the house, so I could sleep.
Thank You for fixing things, thank you for fixing splinters, and "operating" on us when we needed you. Thank You for the rides down the hall on your back.
Thank You for backing off, Butting in,and letting go.
You were born to be a GREAT DAD, AND I THANK GOD FOR YOU.

__________________________________________________________________

And to those who have lost their dads, remember to Thank God for having what time you did have with them.....Although I know you will.
AMEN FOR DADS.