Yoda!

Well, I am probably the last to wish y'all a happy new year and I apologize for taking so long in doing it, but at least I am doing it now.

This past week flew by and it was a whirlwind for Tony and me, because we worked a lot of hours next door, at Escondida Resort & Spa.

Their New Year's Eve Roaring 20's party was a total blast. Darlene's food was so delicious I actually got tired of the guests telling me to please go tell Darlene that she had outdone herself in the kitchen. And I am sure that just running back and forth to the kitchen to give Darlene another compliment from one of the guests added an extra 10,000 steps on my overloaded pink pedometer.

The evening was filled with Little Jewford's magnificent piano playing and he was so funny—he had the crowd begging for more music and more jokes and one-liners.

Around 11:20, as the guests sang along with LJ and were dancing the Charleston, etc. I plopped down on a sofa to rest for a minute. But when I tried to stand back up, my feet were so sore from walking back and forth to the kitchen to give Darlene another guest's compliment on her delicious food, I grabbed Tony, after he had taken pictures of the guests dancing and begged him to please take me home. "Nance, it is 11:25. We only have 35 more minutes until midnight. Can't you wait?..."

I couldn't wait, so Tony took me home and dropped me off and then he returned to the party to take more pictures and bring in the new year. And an hour later when he got back home—I was already in bed with Henry Standing Bear, Little Debbie, Big Al(ice), Beau and Roy—sound asleep.

New Year's Day morning Tony and I were back at work by 8:15, to help Darlene in the kitchen and to serve the guests breakfast and clean up the kitchen. Then we were back at work early that evening to help Darlene with the guests dinner, etc. And we worked Thursday and today, too. So that is my excuse for not responding to e-mail or blogging.

This afternoon after working I finally had the time to think about my 2020 New Year's resolution. My New Year's resolution is to stop eating Darlene's mouth-watering food, because thanks to her fabulous cooking I've gained ten pounds and I need to lose it.

And I am going to make this Yoda quote my 2020 mantra. "DO, OR DO NOT...THERE IS NO TRY." And I do plan to blog, write and exercise more. I promise.

So as I finish writing this I do want to wish everyone a happy new year filled with happiness, love and peace.

Y'all have a great New Year and do keep on laughing!

P.S. "Gaby, I do plan to write you a note tomorrow, because I have the whole day off."

Escondido Resort & Spa New Year's Eve Party!

Tony and I have been working a lot of hours next door, at Escondida Resort & Spa, this week.  Tonight we are resting up, because this famous, popular resort, next door to us, is nearly booked up for their annual New Year's Eve party. Which means that Tony and I will be very busy working next door this coming week.

The theme of this New Year Eve party is the Roaring 20's. So we've been busy decorating and get everything ready for the celebration.

Our dear friend Little Jewford will be the entertainment for the festive evening, so it is already guaranteed that the party will be a total blast. And I cannot wait to see LJ again, because he is one of the funniest entertainers and best piano players on this Planet.

Because Tony and I have been so busy working I haven't blogged or caught up on my e-mail, because I've been too tired.

Not tired because of the extra work next door, but tired because the past five nights I've been waking up in the middle of the night and writing on my novella for at least two to three hours.

I am thrilled about what all I've written, but getting by on four to five hours of sleep each night is starting to take a toll on me, because if I don't get at least eight hours of sleep each night Tony says that I tend to get cranky. Or better said—bi***y.

And because of my lack of sleep I've tried making up for it by taking naps with our four-leggers, but that hasn't been a good idea, because I am not sleepy when I go to bed. So unintentionally I have messed up my sleeping cycle.

Today I decided not to take a nap, in hopes of going to bed at a descent time tonight and catching up on my beauty sleep. So instead of napping this afternoon I've spent most of my afternoon writing. And as I finish writing this I am already yawning, but I am determined not to go to bed at 7:00 and make myself stay up until 10:00. So please wish me luck that I get at least eight hours of sleep tonight.

Y'all have a great evening and keep on laughing!

P.S. Gaby I got your e-mail and I plan to write you back tomorrow.

P.S.S. And to clear up any confusion—Little Debbie will also be acting in Jay Pennington's and Gerry Olert's next short Western—Vinegar to Honey!

Cowgirl In The Sand! or Don't Tell Mama!

The past few days were not so great, because I've been watching too much news about this polarizing, negative, upcoming presidential election and I let it had totally upset me or should I say depressed me. And on top of that just about everyone I know, who are on both political sides have told me that this election has them depressed, too.

So last night when I couldn't sleep once again, because of this upcoming, presidential election—I sat up, in bed and vowed out loud that,"I am going to stop watching anything more that has to do with this election."

Of course, I said it to deaf ears, because Tony and our dogs were all sleeping soundly, except for Henry Standing Bear, so at least Henry heard me.

And yes, I am admitting it and not very proud of it, but I intend to be a "cowgirl (whose head is) in the sand" because enough is enough of this total nonsense.

So today has been great, because I am no longer having anything more to do with the alarming, Late Breaking Bad News about this election. But I promise to vote. So I've said enough and now I shall step down from my soapbox, because I don't want to be spreading any more negativity around.

Now for some good news. This morning our good friend Jim aka "The Mineral Man" sent me an e-mail about Little Jewford. Not our miniature donkey that I, long ago, named Little Jewford, but our good friend Little Jewford who is always helping out our rescue ranch. And when I looked at the attachment Jim had sent that put an even bigger smile on my face.

I wish so bad that Tony and I could go to Little Jewford's concert, in New York City, because he is one of the funniest comedians that I've ever met and on top of that he is an incredibly great pianist.

I have been so lucky to have shared the stage with Little Jewford on several occasions. In fact, back in late October 2006, I was at the Texas Book Festival, in Austin, sharing the stage with Little Jewford and Kinky, because Kinky and I had both been invited to speak there, because Kinky had written a new book and I had written The Road To Utopia: How Kinky, Tony & I Saved More Animals Than Noah that was published by the University of Texas Press.

Anyway, as soon as the three of us got up on stage to talk to the crowd, Little Jewford instantly broke the ice for us and had the whole crowd, including Kinky and me, laughing within seconds. And Little Jewford kept them laughing, in between Kinky doing a reading and then me doing a reading. It was so much fun and it will be something that I will never forget.

So if any of you New Yorkers are reading this now, I urge you to get your tickets early, because I know this will be another one of Little Jewford's sell-out shows. And that is about it for tonight.

P.S. Here's some more good news. That sweet, female German Shepherd pup that I recently wrote about was adopted to a great family, at Hoegemeyer Animal Clinic, just a few hours after we had met her and had taken her picture!

Y'all have a great evening and keep on laughing! And if you can't laugh then please go to Little Jewford's Don't Tell Mama NYC!

Happy Birthdays To Carol and Denise!

Today has been great, even though Tony is still pretty congested and my back is still out, but is not hurting as much.  First off, I want to wish our dear friends Carol and Denise Happy Birthdays. And I also want to wish everyone a happy Valentine's Day! Then I want to thank our dear friend, Gerry Olert, for doing a fabulous job on making our update Utopia Animal Rescue Ranch Winter 2015 video. Please click here to view it.

Yesterday, our dear friend Jim gave me a copy of his newest meat loaf recipe, that both he and Kris were raving about it. They told me that it was totally delicious and was the best meat loaf that they have ever eaten. So today I made it for Tony's and my lunch, along with servings of couscous and spinach.

The meat loaf was totally delicious and easy to make. All you have to do is preheat the oven to 375 degrees, mix all of these ingredients in a bowl and put it into a baking dish. Then you make the topping and completely cover the meat loaf before baking it for 1 hour. And I hope that you make it.

Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef                                                    
1/2 cup of yellow onion                                                                                                  
1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper                                
1 egg lightly beaten                                                        
1/2 cup quick cooking oats
1 cup of canned diced tomatoes with juice
1 1/4 teaspoons salt
1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

Topping:
1/2 cup of ketchup
2 tablespoons of light brown sugar
1 tablespoon yellow mustard

This afternoon Little Jewford came over to see us before he does his show tonight, at The Hunt Store. We had so much fun visiting with him, even though every time that that he made us laugh—Tony would cough and my lower back would ache. But it was worth the coughing and pain, because we love L.J. so much.

Tonight, Kinky and Brian Molnar are going to Little Jewford's Valentine's Day show, but unfortunately, because we're temporarily damaged goods—we can't make it, because Little Jewford doesn't need to have us, standing around and coughing non-stop. So, if you haven't already made plans for tonight—go see Little Jewford's Valentine's Day show, in Hunt, because I promise that you'll have a great time and be glad that you went.

Early tomorrow morning, Kinky is leaving the ranch for his tour of shows, in Germany, Switzerland and Austria. And that is about it for today.

Y'all have a Happy Valentine's Day!

Best Friends!

Today has been great. This afternoon, before we met Kris for lunch at El Sol de Mexico, our favorite Mexican food restaurant, in Kerrville, we went to the Melody Corner Music Center. "Stan the Music Man" is the owner of the cool music store and he is good friends with Kinky and us. I took my mandolin to him, so he could put some new strings on it and check out a sound problem it has developed, because it is over twenty years old. While he checked it out and fixed it for me and restrung it, we had a fun visit with him.

Lunch with Kris was a blast and we wished that her husband, The Mineral Man could have joined us. As always, Kris and I ordered their #26 and Tony ordered their #27 and our lunch was totally delicious.

When we got back to the rescue ranch, Kinky called me. "Nance, Little Jewford is over here and you and Tony need to come over."

"I'd love to see Little Jewford, but Tony is at the Medina Ace Hardware store right now. I'll be over there in just a minute."

Little Jewford is one of the funniest men that I know and every time that we get together he and I get to cutting up and joking and laughing about life and today was no different. The three of us sat outside on Kinky's front porch, with The Friedmans and we did so much laughing my back is aching as I type this.

I gave him a signed copy of my first novella, The Cowgirl Sisterhood: The Membership Drive, Part I and he was thrilled to know that I am writing fiction, novella cliffhangers. He teased me and told me that he could not wait to read it and that he planned to read it as he drove himself back to Austin tonight. Anyway, it was great seeing Little Jewford and catching up with him and visiting with Kinky.

Before I finish writing tonight, I spoke to Wendi, a dear friend of ours, who works at the famous Best Friends Animal Society, in Kanab, Utah. They are trying to get the word out about Texas House Bill 2981. Kinky, Tony and I love Best Friends and admire their work and we want to help them help our Texas Dogs. The House Bill 2981 is supposed to be voted on early next week. So please take the time to read what they sent us below and check out Best Friends site concerning this important bill. They wrote:

"Fellow Texans, Lone Star pets need your help. Please ask your state representative to support House Bill 2981, the Tax Saving Pet Adoption, Sterilization, and Transfer Act, which encourages government animal shelters and rescue groups to work together to save the lives of our pets. Remember, politics is not a spectator sport. So speak up for House Bill 2981. Check it out at Best Friends."

I hope that you can help get this Bill passed and that is about it for tonight.

Y'all have a great evening!

A Deer Magnet! or Girl Scouts Rule!

Today has been great. This morning after we did our chores outside, I called Hoegemeyer's to check on Tuesday Weld, who had just been spayed and in recovery. The veterinarian that I spoke to, told me that Tuesday was a lovely, Pit Bull and as sweet as she could be and she is probably one to one-and-a-half- years old. And, we get to pick her up tomorrow and bring her to the rescue ranch.

As soon as I hung up the phone, it rang and it was Kinky calling me from the road, because tonight he and Little Jewford will be performing in Lufkin, to kickoff The Tour-Ette, to help raise money for our rescue ranch. "Hi, Nance. I'm calling to find out how Tuesday Weld is doing." After I told him what I had just found out about Ms. Weld, I wished him luck with his show tonight and then we adios-ed each other.

A few minutes later, around 11:00, I went outside to greet Chris and Jennifer, from Houston, who earlier had made an appointment to come out for a tour. Tony and I gave them the Grand Tour, because we really liked this young, friendly, dog-loving couple. When their tour began, our neighbor's people friendly, pet deer decided to join us and tag along and it followed us from one dog pen to another and it was pretty funny. And when we ended the first part of their tour, in front of the pigpen, the people-loving-deer would not leave Chris alone, by walking back and forth, in between Chris' legs and then standing up on its hind legs and leaning on him, so Jennifer and I teased Chris about him being a deer whisper and a deer magnet.

The sweet couple loved our rescue ranch and The Okay Corral, Tony's No Whiner Diner, Outer Space, The Cabin and our six member fur-family, that loved them back.

They stayed for about an hour and a half and Tony and I really enjoyed their visit, but they sure pulled the wool-over-our-eyes. Right before they were ready to leave, Jennifer told us that she and Chris had been married for thirteen years, which shocked us. "Did y'all get married when y'all were ten-years- old?" I jokingly asked, which made them laugh. "Seriously, I thought y'all were in your mid-twenties."

"Me, too," Tony added.

"We got married when we were thirty," Jennifer said. "I'm forty-three and people are always telling us that we look a lot younger than we are." We chatted for a few more minutes and then we adios-ed them, as they climbed on their Kawasaki motorcycle, to go eat lunch at Toucan Jim's, in Center Point, because we had recommended it to them, along with Cal-Bob's Cook Shack, The Save Inn and being sure to check out Wolfmueller's Books.

Because my time was getting tight, because I had made an appointment at 1:30, with Blayre, (Correct spelling) a really cool, thirteen-year-old Girl Scout, I made grilled cheese sandwiches and bean soup for our lunch and Tony loved it.

As soon as I had cleaned up the kitchen, Blayre and her father arrived promptly, so we went out to my pink writing cabin, so we could discuss her Silver Project, that she wants to do to help our rescue ranch.

"We came out here last year and you gave us a tour and after I had read both of your books, all I've wanted to do is help Utopia," Blayre told me. Then we talked about her Silver Project.

Blayre, along with some of her friends help, that she has already recruited, are going to bake healthy dog treats for our rescued dogs, using peanut butter, whole wheat flour, oats and water! "I ate one of them," she confessed to me, "but, I didn't like it much, because I like white flour and white bread..."

As I listened to this wonderful, kind-hearted, young lady, I nearly teared up a few times, because I was so impressed with her. "I love dogs so much and I think it would help your visitors and possible adopters get a better impression of your dogs, if they gave them treats," she explained. "We will try to bake 500 dog treats weekly and deliver them to you and..." Then she handed me two, sample baggies filled with her homemade dog treats to give to our dogs.

When our Silver Project meeting had officially ended, I thanked Blayre for being such a sweet and caring girl for wanting to help us and then I told her how impressed I was with her and then I told her that she was a real winner, in my book and a great person and for her to never change, because our world needs more people like her. While I shook her father's hand, I said, "You and your wife have raised your daughter right and I thank you for that. I can't express how impressed I am with her..."

After this truly great, young Girl Scout and her father drove away, to go back home, I came inside The Cabin and told Tony all about my impressive meeting with Blayre and then we tried out six of her doggie cookies on our dogs and they absolutely loved them, especially Roy Rogers, who wouldn't quit begging for just one more. Tomorrow, we will give the rest of Blayre's delicious doggie cookies to our dogs outside. And that is about it for today. "Thank you so much, Blayre! You truly made my day."

Y'all have a great evening!

A Bed Of Chocolate!

Yesterday was a great day, because late in the day, we went to Kinky's Man In Black Tequila bottle signing party at Spec's, in Kerrville and we had a blast. The gigantic liquor store was packed with all kinds of people, standing in line to get Kinky to sign their bottles of Man In Black tequila, along with a few guitars and one ukelele.

Before they sold out of Kinky's tequila, Tony and I took a lot of pictures of Kinky's and our friends. I love this black and white picture that Tony took of Kinky's tequila business partner Brian Kanof.

Dylan Ferrero and Little Jewford

Gerry Olert, Little Jewford and Kink

Jay Pennington, Big G and yours truly

Jay Pennington with Little Jewford

Max Swafford with L.J.

My favorite videographer, Gerry Olert and guess who?

Today has been good, but it is fixing to be great, because our dear friends Leisa and Rick, "The Friendly Lighthouse Keeper" from Port A, will be arriving here, around 7:30 and we can't wait to see them.

Earlier today, after I did some paperwork, I cleaned our trailer, vacuumed the walls and ceiling on the front porch and Outer Space and then Tony and I went out to my writing cabin to get it ready for our friends. 

While we were making up their bed I started laughing, "Tony, instead of putting a little piece of chocolate on their pillowcases, like they do at fancy hotels, we should get Ben's three, giant bricks of Miles of Chocolate out of the freezer and put them in the middle of the bed." Tony chuckled about it. "Rick would get a kick out of seeing a bed of chocolate—his bed of chocolate, and he would feel good about you paying off the kayak."

So, in about thirty minutes, we are going to go outside to put the three, frozen bricks of Miles of Chocolate on Leisa and Rick's bedspread—then T. will officially be the new owner of his kayak as soon as Rick sees it. And that is about it for tonight.

Y'all have a great evening!

And You're Short!

From Yesterday's To Be Continued...

Yesterday at five-thirty I was in the shower when Kinky called and left a message on the machine, "Nance, Frank and I are ready to go to the festival. Let's go. Call me." When Tony heard his message he came and told me that Kinky was ready to go even though we had planned to leave a little after six o'clock. Tone's news caused an adrenaline rush and I was no longer tired. After I quickly dressed in my jeans and navy blue rescue ranch long-sleeved t-shirt and put on my pink boots I took a baby Aspirin and then called Kinky.

"Kink, I need five more minutes then we will meet you out in front by the gate." Three minutes later we left the rescue ranch and closed the gate behind us. Then we saw a maroon pickup parked ahead of us on the road. When we came to a stop an elderly man jumped out of his truck and approached us wearing a badge around his neck, so I rolled down Buttermilk's window. "Can we help you?" I asked.

"I hope so! I am with the Census Bureau."

"Sir, I filled out and mailed the form out on the same day that we received it," I said. Then he scratched his head.

"I'm not looking for you. I am trying to find these addresses..." While we tried to give him directions we saw Mr. Green Jeans with Kinky and Frank inside coming to meet us and then they stopped when they reached the fork in the road. As soon as the man had the directions we told him that we had to leave. He thanked us and then we took off. Buttermilk followed Mr. Green Jeans all of the way to the folk festival and then we parked them side by side. Then we went to check ourselves in and get our V.I.P. wrist bands and then the very nice volunteers took us to our table with four comfortable chairs. After we checked in our books for them to sell for us we sat down and the fun began. Here is a picture of the sign they made for me that they taped to our table.

Suddenly out of nowhere Kinky had hundreds of fans surround us at our table that wanted to shake his hand, get their pictures taken with him or to discuss politics with him. Here is a picture that I took of Tony and Frank people-watching from their chairs in the foreground, as Kinky posed for pictures with fans behind them.

Kinky and I went onstage after the first performance which was great. He read his beautiful story of The Hummingbird Man and the crowd loved it and then he introduced me and I came out on stage. After Kinky lowered the mike for me I said, "Hi, y'all. I promise this is a short story."

Then Kinky quickly quipped, "And you're short!" The crowd roared with laughter and then I began reading even though I was a nervous wreck. Tony took this short eleven-second video clip of me when I started to read the funny story about Kinky and his Willie Nelson t-shirt. Tone told me after we came back to the table that they had nicely told him that they did not allow for anyone to tape the show. Here is a picture that T. took of me and Kink right after he called me short.

I sold a few books and Kinky sold a ton of his books. We all enjoyed the festival and I want to thank Dalis and the Kerrville Folk Festival Volunteers for taking care of us in grand style. Y'all Rock!

Tony and I left the fun festival around nine-thirty because we were so tired and unfortunately I  didn't get to see my friend Finney. When we got home we went straight to bed and we slept like logs.

Today has been great. Kinky, Little Jewford and I had a blast this afternoon at the Chisholm Trail Winery in Fredericksburg and I fell in love with Paula and Mike, the owners. They are the nicest people! I will tell you all about it tomorrow after I do my interview with Connie Strong for the super cool magazine Texas Live. I am really looking forward to meeting her tomorrow!

I am hooked on Tom D. Wells book, Drop-Ins and I can't wait to read a few more chapters tonight before we go to bed. It is absolutely hilarious!

Y'all have a great evening!

To Be Continued Again...

Slip Sliding Away!

Yesterday, a few things happened that I forgot to tell y'all about. While I was over at the Lodge visiting with Kinky, Will and Copper, we were discussing Kinky's new book, and the one that I am working on. "Nance," Kinky said. "You need to get your book published now. I don't understand why you haven't."

"I can't Kinky," I replied. "For one thing, I am still working on it. And the other reason is—Mercury is fixin' to go into retrograde real soon, on September sixth through September twenty-ninth, to be exact, and I am not about to get it published during that time frame." Kinky sorta chuckled, and Will smiled.

"I'm with you, Cousin Nancy," Copper said, nodding her head. "I wouldn't publish then either. It's the smart thing to do. I have friends who..."

After we were done discussing the problems caused by the planet Mercury in retrograde, Kinky said, "I have some good news. Ruth Buzzi and Kent called earlier, and they are coming to Willie's Bloody Mary Morning event for my campaign! And they asked me if you and Tone were coming. Y'all have got to go, Nance."

"I don't know, Kinky," I said. "Tony and I really want to go to it, but we've been talking about driving in that crazy Dallas traffic, and now we're not sure." Shortly after that, I returned to the rescue ranch and the rest is history.

This morning I walked eight fast miles! Then T. and I went over to the Lodge to deliver smoothies. Will was there, but Kinky was gone. He was in Kerrville. Before leaving, we invited Will to join us for lunch in Kerrville, because we had errands to run. He told us that he would try to make it, but was not sure.

When we returned to the rescue ranch, I punched in Kink's cell phone number, and invited him to join us for lunch. He told me that he was busy running errands, but he would try to make it, too.

Now here's the part that y'all are not going to believe, but it is true. I'll explain later.

As Tony and I sat at our table, in the orange colored restaurant, we placed a bet on Kinky showing up! I won the bet—he showed up! As we ate their truly delicious shrimp cocktail appetizer, Kinky remarked, "This is really embarrassing for me."

"What's embarrassing?" I asked, with shrimp in my mouth.

"This is the third time that I have eaten here within twenty-four hours." We all started laughing. "Will and I ate dinner here last night. I ate here for breakfast, and now I am eating lunch." Once again, we laughed! Then our meals were served.

Tone and I had chicken verdes enchiladas with beans and rice, and Kinky ate their "Speedy Gonzalez Special," which he loves. It looked good and I might give it a try sometime. Our lunch was delicious and filled with laughter. Then we went our separate ways.

Kinky went to Albertsons, to stock up on some groceries, and we went to San Saba Cap to turn in some artwork. Then we went over to Copies Plus to see Trish, to talk to her about doing some posters for the rescue ranch. While we were there, Randy, of the famous, Randy and Lisa's Save Inn restaurant, showed up! He is Trish's father-in-law. We had a fun visit with them, and then we left.

Around five o'clock, Kinky called and invited us over to the Lodge for a visit. Tony was busy planting or harvesting crops, on his virtual farm, on Facebook, so I went by myself. Kinky and I visited outside by the Friedman Family Bone Orchard for about thirty minutes. Then he asked me to go on a short walk with him.

"Kinky, I'll go, but only for a short one, but not through the woods, because I don't want to sprain or break my ankle. I walked eight miles this morning and it's a hundred degrees outside. Okay?" We took off with the Friedmans.

Well, let's just say that Kinky tricked me! Yes, he tricked me. Twenty minutes into our walk, Kinky says, "Nance, there's a trail up ahead, but I am not sure where. Let's take it. It is beautiful." We marched on. "You know this is where Dylan and I got lost over a year ago." My heart was pounding—from the heat.

"I know. I've walked that trail with you and Ben, and I think it is up ahead, after we cross the creek." That's about the time, when I realized that The Friedmans had disappeared and I was fixin' to do some cross-country hiking in my pink Justin Gypsy cowboy boots! After crossing the bone dry creek, we walked about twenty more feet. "Is this the trail?" I asked.

"Yes! Follow me." I did and I wished that I hadn't. Suddenly, I found myself climbing nearly straight up a tall, rocky ledge, with rocks slipping away under my boots, and me grabbing at every branch, that I could find, to steady myself! "You're doing fine Nance and if you fall, just roll down to the bottom, it's not that far," Kinky said, ten feet ahead or should I say above me.

"Yeah right," I quipped. "I thought you promised me that we would go on a easy hike! I'm buying hiking boots, if I survive this trek with you!" Kinky laughed. I didn't.

When I finally made it up to the top of the super steep ledge, I was out of breath, soaking wet from sweat, but smiling because I had survived! Ten minutes later we were in the Lodge. Then Will appeared. They told me they had oranges, apples and bananas, so I offered to go to the rescue ranch, to get Jaws, my Vita-Mix machine, and make them smoothies.

Ten minutes later, Tone and I were at the Lodge making smoothies for Will and Kinky. As they sipped their healthy drinks, we got to talking about the Blood Mary Morning event. "Nance, you and Tone could drive up to Fort Worth and ride with Ruthie and Kent over to Dallas!" Tony shook his head no.

"I'm not going to Dallas," Tony stated. "Nance can go if she wants to, but I am staying here." We laughed.

"You're a baby, Tone. Nance, you could ride up with Ben and Will!" Kinky suggested.

"Great!" I said. "I can just hear Will telling Ben about me riding with them. 'Dang it Ben! Nancy is going to ride with us!'" The men started laughing.

"Nance," Kinky said. "You can ride up with Little Jewford and me, but you'll have to drive up to Austin, and spend the night in Dallas. How about that?"

"How about we drop the subject for now," I said. "You're wearing me out." They laughed, again. Then Kinky challenged Tony to a game of pool. T. declined because he was wore out. Kinky then challenged Will to a game of pool.

While The Hummingbird Man and Will took turns sinking their balls into the pockets, Kinky says, "Y'all, this is my imitation of Cousin Nancy earlier today. She calls me and says, 'Kinky, I've got some great news for you! Ben is coming down tonight!'" Kinky, Will and Tony started laughing! "Nance," Kinky teased. "I'd say that is good news, but not what you would call great news." The Hummingbird Man won the pool game.

Y'all have a great evening! I mean good evening! I mean a great evening!

Cowboys Don't Wear Cardigans!

This morning after walking another eight fast miles, I went over to the Lodge to visit with Kinky. We talked about the upcoming event, then we went outside to the Friedman Family Bone Orchard and played with The Friedmans for a while. Then we went back inside, and Kinky challenged me to a game of pool!

The Hummingbird Man broke up the rack of balls, and sank a stripe, then another, and then another—he was on a roll! I tried to sink a solid, but failed. The Hummingbird Man then sank two more stripes—I knew I was fixin' to lose, but I didn't!

After the second stripe fell into its pocket, the eight ball fell in, too— on top of it! I had won! Neither one of us could believe it! It made Kinky laugh! Cousin Nancy -1, The Hummingbird Man -0! I loved it, and couldn't wait to come home to tell Tony!

Tony smiled, as I told him all about the game, and me winning! "Nance, I'm glad that you won by default. I'm really proud of you."

After lunch, Kinky called—Carlton took the call, because I was washing the dishes. "Nance, call me. I think I am going deaf. My new phone is making weird ocean sounds." I called Kinky.

"When I use the phone on one side—I hear ocean sounds, and it is driving me crazy!"

"What about the other side?" I asked.

"No ocean sounds," Kinky replied. "Can you come over here, and get Tony to call you—to check it out?" My answer was yes.

"Tony," I half-hollered. "I'm going over to Kinky's to check out his new phone. I need for you to call me over there, in about five minutes. Okay?"

Tony hollered, "Okay." I left the trailer, jumped into Trigger, and we went over the river and through the woods—to the Lodge.
A few minutes later, Kinky's phone rang—it was Tone. I picked up the receiver and said, "Start talking Tony. I've got to try both ears."

"What?" T. asked. "You want me to..." I switched ears. "Why?"

"Keep talking Tony," I said, as I switched ears, again. "Thank you, Tone. Bye." I hung up on him. "The problem is with your new phone, Kinky," I said. "We're talkin' white noise. I heard it, too. You're not going deaf." Kinky was somewhat relieved, so Trig took me back home.

Around three-thirty, Kinky called, again. "Nance, Tony—Debora and Little Jewford are here. Come on over." Tony and I did as we were told.

Debora and Little Jewford had come down, from Austin, to discuss the event, and it was eventful! After about an hour or so—we were all ready, and set to go! The 'T's' were crossed and the 'I's" were dotted, and then we crossed our fingers, that this event would be as much fun as the last one! I can't wait for Jerry Jeff Walker and Ramblin' Jack Elliott to perform—they are legends and my heroes!

Before leaving the Lodge, Kinky and I started telling Debora and Little Jewford about John Mankieiwicz's visit, at the ranch, and how much fun we had had with him! We told them about John winning the pool tournaments, and us nicknaming him, The California Wussie. "Y'all, we even had a pool award ceremony," I said. "It was hilarious! Kinky and Tone presented him with a pool trophy, and they made the funniest video for my blog!"

Then Kinky starts telling them about John leaving his navy sweater, at the O.S.T., and Tony and me retrieving it for him—the next day. "They told me," Kinky said. "That was the first time ever, that anyone has ever left a cardigan at the O.S.T.? John made history."

"Have you mailed him his sweater, yet?" I asked.

"No. I'm mailing it tomorrow, along with his trophy," Kinky said. "He forgot to take it." Then he stood up from his chair, walked over to the fireplace, and picked up John's trophy to show to Debora and Little Jewford. We all laughed! Kinky then returned it to the mantle, and then picked up a much smaller pool trophy—and started laughing. "The Medina Bulldog and I are still in a snit about him beating us. I think we'll keep the big trophy, and send him this smaller version. Cowboys don't wear cardigans, and it will save me on postage."

Y'all have a great evening!


P.S. Wait until I tell y'all about Jon and Sandy's new iPhone docking system—tomorrow!

We Are Family!

I have a new rule, that I made. When I am doing my daily five mile walk. I do not want to be disturbed, and I will not answer the phone, with the exceptions of four people—my sister, Cindy, my brother, Ronnie, Tony and Kinky.

Yesterday morning, right after I had started my brisk walking, the phone rang. "Hello, Nance. This is Cindy. I was wondering..." I paused Leslie and her gang, then I answered the phone.

"Hi Cindy!" I said, as I continued to walk in place, at the same pace, that Leslie had gotten us up to.

"What are you doing? You sound a little winded."

"I am," I huffed. "I'm in the middle of doing my five mile brisk walk. I just paused the DVD."

"I'm sorry..."

"No, I'm fine. What's going on?" I asked my sister, as I stomped around the 'big room.'

"I was thinking about coming out to see you today, but if you've got plans..."

"I would love to see you, Cindy! Come on out! I can't wait!..." After we got off of the phone, I pushed 'play' on the remote, and resumed my sweaty workout!

After I had completed my exercise session, I started a load of clothes to wash in Queen Bee. When Tony came inside, I told him about Cindy coming! He was excited about seeing her, and we readjusted our afternoon plans. It was no big deal.

Earlier that morning, during breakfast, Tone and I had decided to take Mama, my great, Great Pyrenees, to Hoegemeyers, because her ear was aching. We figured while Mama was being treated at the vet clinic, we would shop for groceries at H.E.B., and then we would pick her up, and come home.

Since I had suggested to Cindy, that she come here, and then we go into Kerrville, for a late lunch, our new plan was for Tony and Mama to ride in Buttermilk, and I would ride with Cindy, so we could visit a little longer. Tony would then drop Mama off and then meet us for lunch.

At twelve-thirty, the dogs started barking outside. I went out to the porch, and saw Cindy's car approaching the trailer! I then left the porch and went to go greet her. Talk about surprised! My brother, Ronnie gets out of the passenger side, and then Cindy! "Nance, I decided to call Ronnie, to see if he wanted to come with me. My gosh, you look great!" Cindy and I hugged, and then Ronnie and I hugged. I was so happy to see them! We are family, but we are also best friends!

Before going into Outer Space, I showed off the Space Ship to them. Cindy had seen it a few months back, but Ronnie had never seen it. And yes, he loved it, and could not believe how cool it was!

The four of us had a great visit in Outer Space, and we laughed so much—my back was was starting to ache! Here is a picture that Tony took of us:

Around three o'clock, we decided to go eat lunch in Kerrville. But, before we left the rescue ranch, Kermit took Cindy, Ronnie and me to Beckham's pen, for a short visit with him. They both thought he was really cute.

As we were returning to the trailer, I said, "Where would y'all like to eat in Kerrville with Tone and me?"

Ron shook his head, "I' don't know, Nance. Tony told me that he has to hurry up and get out of here, so he can take his mother somewhere. Maybe we should just visit here, a little while longer, and forget about eating lunch."

"What?" I asked. "Ron, Tony's mom is dead." Then I figured it out, and I started laughing! "Ron, Tony is going to take my dog, Mama, to the vet and drop her off. I am going to ride with y'all, and he will meet up with us."

"Nance, please don't tell Tony what I said about his mother."

"Don't worry, Ron, I won't, because I am going to blog about it!"

We had a great lunch in Kerrville, and we laughed all through our meal. At four-thirty, we hugged each other out in the parking lot, and then said our goodbyes. Cindy and Ronnie took off for Drippin' and Austin, and Tone and I headed to H.E.B.

I had so much fun yesterday! I wish that we lived closer. I love them so much! Tony and I are going to try to get away for twenty-four hours, real soon, so we can go visit them.

Earlier today, I posted the information for the upcoming Kinky Friedman Ranch Roundup on June 13th, starring Jerry Jeff Walker and Ramblin' Jack Elliott, Kinky and Little Jewford! I hope y'all can make the event—it will be a total blast!

Y'all have a great evening!

Kinky Friedman's Ranch Roundup—June 13th With Jerry Jeff Walker and Ramblin' Jack Elliott!

I've got some great news! Yeah Kinky!

Kinky’s first Ranch Roundup, held on his private ranch last October, was labeled a huge success by all who were lucky enough to attend. Since then everyone has begged him to do it “one more time”. Well, the wait is over….Kinky has agreed to host another ranch roundup on June 13th, and this time his old friends Jerry Jeff Walker and Ramblin’ Jack Elliot will be performing too! Just like last time, there will be only one late afternoon performance at Kinky Friedman's private home, Echo Hill Ranch-- the much storied ranch featured in his mystery novels.
The event will feature:

Dinner with Kinky - Echo Hill Ranch dinner served (included in ticket price)

Guided tours of Utopia Animal Rescue Ranch

Self-guided nature walks at Echo Hill Ranch

Music by Jerry Jeff Walker, Ramblin’ Jack Elliot and Kinky Friedman with Little Jewford

A limited number of guest passes will go on sale after noon on April 18th. The price is $200 per person. This event is guaranteed to sell out quickly. Only confirmed guests will be admitted to Echo Hill or Utopia on the day of the event and no tickets will be sold at the gate. The number of guests is limited and the first Ranch Round up sold out in only a few days, so get your place on the guest list soon. To get on the guest list go here:

Kinky Friedman Ranch Roundup

A portion of the proceeds from Kinky's Ranch Roundup will benefit Kinky's favorite cause, the Utopia Animal Rescue Ranch. Utopia is a nonprofit no kill animal shelter that rescues abandoned and/or abused animals, nurtures them and places them with loving families.

Bella Vita!

Today was a great day for me! This morning I did Leslie Sansone's 'Four Mile Fast Walk,' again! And, I loved it—it was great! And, after doing the four swifter than swift, twelve minute miles—I must admit that my hair was a mess, and I looked road hard, too! I highly recommend her walking tapes, because she is fun and personable. I plan to do it again tomorrow! That will make it day three!

This morning, Kinky came over for a visit, and to also see our resident, celebrity soccer ball, playing pig— Beckham! Beck was great, and he was glad to see the Kinkster! There was a lot of laughing, as we played with Beck!

Before leaving the rescue ranch, I told Kinky about Bella Vita, the new Italian restaurant in Kerrville and I recommended that he give it a try. Then Kinky took off through the woods and over the river—back to the Lodge.

Thirty minutes later, Buttermilk, Tone and I took off for Kerrville, to eat lunch and run some errands. We decided to eat at Bella Vita. When we pulled into the parking lot—we saw Mr. Green Jeans parked outside. Tony and I then decided to play a joke on Kinky!

When we walked inside, "Hi Cousin Nancy and Tony! Welcome to Bella Vita! How in the world are y'all doing?" Cat said! Cat is the woman who adopted Cher from us, a long time ago! "Howdy Cat!" We said. "Can we get one of Jessica's tables?"

"No. Sorry, Jessica has already gone, but Kinky is here. Do y'all want to sit with him?"

"No," I said. "We want to play a joke on him. Where is he?"

"Outside. Over there."

"Can we sit inside, right next to him?"

When Tony and I sat down at our table, with a french door separating Kinky from us—I tapped on the window. Kink looked over, and then he recognized us! He smiled and waved at us, as he was finishing off his dinner.

On his way out, I said, "Kinky did you like it?"

He nodded his head up and down, "Really good, Nance. The fish was excellent. Have y'all tried it?"

"Nope, but we will. Thanks for trying the new restaurant out. I told you that it was great. We'll see you back at the ranch in a little while." Kinky smiled and left the restaurant.

After we finished our delicious meals, T. and I ran two errands, and then we returned to the rescue ranch. When we walked into the trailer, I had seven new messages on the answering machine—five were from Kinky! "Nance, call me, etc...!"

I called Kinky. "Nance, George, the photographer is here, and he wants to come over to the rescue ranch, to shoot pictures for the cover of my new book—'Kinky's Celebrity Pet Files!' Can he and his camera crew come over there now?"

Five minutes later, George and his camera crew—Sara and Erin, all super nice people, were busy setting up their camera equipment, in front of our trailer, outside our front yard, for their photo shoot! It was pretty exciting!

While they were setting up, I called Kinky and asked him if I could come over to the Lodge, to visit with him, Little Jewford and Debora.

As always, I had a blast visiting with the three of them! Little Jewford is so dog-gone funny—he had all of us laughing our heads off—which was not a pretty sight,—but was a lot of fun! After visiting for over forty-five minutes, the four of us, went over the river and through the woods—for Kinky's photo shoot over here! Talk about fun!

As they shot Kinky, Little Jewford had us laughing, until there were tears in our eyes! I took a bunch of pictures of Kinky with his costume changes, but none of them turned out great, so I deleted them, but here are a couple of pictures I took, from our front porch, as George and his crew visited with Kinky! Y'all have a great evening! I'm going to bed early, because George, Erin and Sara are coming back over tomorrow morning at 8:30!

P.S. I am doing 'The Harley Show' tomorrow morning, but unfortunately we can't go to The Rose, 99.9 radio station. I hope that y'all will listen in at 7:45!

Pass The Kleenex Please!

This morning, at 5:30, I woke up with the worse sore throat, but I got up, took my medicine and did my chores. Before Tony left for Medina, we decided that we definitely would not open the rescue ranch to the public, because we needed a break, and I was in no shape to give tours, etc.

I was all for it, and did paperwork all morning, as I coughed and sneezed away the morning. After catching up with my work, the phone rang. "Cousin Nancy, this is Jody. Matt and I are back, and we wanted to know if we could come out, and pick up Toby and Baby? We've really missed them!"

Around eleven-thirty, they showed up to pick up their dogs. Tony was gone, so I bundled up, and went outside to say hello. After Matt had loaded up Baby and Toby—into their truck, he said, "Cousin Nancy, thank y'all so much for helping us out with the dogs. Jody and I were wondering if you would consider letting us adopt those two small pups? We fell in love them when we came out to leave the dogs."

"I would love for you to adopt those two pups! Sniff-sniff. Their names are Rebecca and Sasha, and they are wonderful little dogs! Cough, Cough, Cough!" Then we went to their pen and got them.

When Matt, Jody, Baby and Toby—drove away, Sasha and Rebecca were boucing around, inside the pickup, and it made me laugh, cough and sneeze!

When I came back to the trailer, the phone rang. "Rescue ranch," I said, in my new deep voice. "This is Nancy."

"Hi, this is Bill and I was wondering if y'all are open today? We wanted to come out."

"No, not today. We are closed, and besides, I have some kind of bug, but if you are wanting to adopt one of our dogs—then yes, we're open."

"We want to adopt one of your dogs!"

"Well, come on out then! Sneeze, sneeze, excuse me—sneeze!"

Bil and Rita showed up about an hour later, and guess what—they are good friends with our friends, Little Jewford and John Mc.! After I gave them a tour of our rescue ranch, and introduced them to all of our dogs, they picked—Honey! I then took off for the trailer, to write up the adoption papers, and to call Kinky to tell him the good news. Unfortunately, Kinky wasn't near his phone.

After Rita completed Honey's adoption form, Tony and I shook hands with Rita and Bil, and then thanked them for giving our Honey, a super great—forever home!

Y'all, that is about all that I can write tonight. I'm sneezing so hard, and so much, I am afraid that I might just get electrocuted by my laptop, if I don't catch a sneeze in time! Y'all have a great evening!

Day -O!

I am sorry for not blogging last night. I wanted to, but some good friends of ours came over.

Yesterday, was a great day, in fact, it was a greater day, than my usual great days, because we had an adoption! Here’s how my day went:

Yesterday morning, I got up earlier than usual, because I knew that a lot of people were coming out to visit our rescue ranch, take tours, walk our dogs and maybe have an adoption!

I always give tours of our trailer, because everyone, who comes out, wants to see it, go into Outer Space with us, go into my Space Ship and to also see my writing cabin. I don’t mind doing it at all, because I enjoy showing it off. So, before sunup, I had fed my furry friends, vacuumed, dusted, and washed a load of clothes!

The reason for my homework, was so I wouldn’t be embarrassed, as I was, a week ago Saturday, when I gave Sasha, Ken, Rebecca and Jack, a tour of our trailer—it was dirty, but not real dirty. It just needed vacuuming and dusting.

Linda T., up in Harker Heights, was going to be the first to arrive, she was driving three hours, to come walk our dogs all day, and I could not wait to meet her! She’s the nice race car driver who had offered to drive me to Houston, this weekend, to do calendar signings with Kinky and Little Jewford, then get me back home safely. How sweet is that!

Around 9:30, she left a message on the machine, telling me that she could not make it, and she was sick about it! She told me that she had to take her brother-in-law to the Emergency Room, around midnight! She had been up most of the night, and was totally exhausted, but he was okay. I was disappointed, but completely understood, and thank goodness he was okay.

Around 10:30, our wonderful neighbor, Heather, showed up with some members of her family! Tony and I gave them a tour, and it was a lot of fun! We finished up the tour at Mr. Ziffle’s pen, and everyone fell in love with him! Mr. Ziffle is such a great dog. He is highly intelligent, and is about two years old.

When it was time for them to return to Heather’s ranch, Tony and I didn’t want them to leave, because we were enjoying their visit, so much! Before driving away, Heather told us that she will see us again, during the holidays! We can’t wait!

As soon as they drove off, a van full of people drove up—they were from Dallas, visiting their mother, Sugar, who lives nearby, and they wanted a tour! So Tony and I gave them a tour, and they fell in love with our dogs, too! Then Clint, who works at Central Market in Dallas, saw Tony’s hat and said, “Miles of Chocolate, I have a cap just like that! We carry their chocolate and pear bread! People love it! Have you tried it?”

“Yes,” Tony said. “Ben Welch, who works out here, a few days a month, is Miles partner.”

“I know Miles,” Clint said. “I’ve not met Ben, yet.” We visited a little while longer and then they drove away.

Tony and I then came inside the trailer, and I made us homemade asparagus soup—it was delicious! Just after I had cleaned up the kitchen, Paul drove up, with his four best friends, that he and his wife had adopted from us—Susie, Gracie, Stella and Yetti! Paul and his crew didn’t stay very long, but we had a great visit! Tony and I love Paul! He and his wife, Marty have done so much to help our ranch!

Around 2:30, Tony left the trailer, while I was returning some phone calls. At three-fifteen, Tony came inside the trailer, to tell me that Emily had just been adopted, and I needed to fill out her adoption papers! “Tony this is great! I’m sorry, I didn’t know that they had arrived. Our dogs didn’t bark.” I quickly filled out our adoption form for Emily! Then we got into Kermit, and he took us out of the rescue ranch, to where there car was parked—outside of the ranch.

The reason they were parked outside of the ranch, was because earlier in the week, Jessica had called me, to tell me, that they were the ones who had adopted Teddy Roosevelt, from us last year. She said that Teddy was the greatest dog, and their family loved him, so much! Jessica told me that their old dog had passed away, and they wanted to adopt another dog from us, so Teddy could have a running buddy! She had asked if it would be okay to bring Teddy along, so they could try him out with whoever they picked. My answer was yes, but I did ask her to please park outside of the rescue ranch, so T.R. would not upset our dogs. She kept her word!

When Tone and I pulled up in Kermit, Teddy Roosevelt and Emily were best friends—with tails high and wagging! I was so happy for Emily, I teared up for a second, when I saw what a beautiful dog Teddy had turned into, and was thrilled that Emily had found her forever home with this great family! Tony and I visited with Jessica and her husband, Hays, as we watched their two beautiful children, Jackson and Summer, playing with Teddy Roo and Emily!

After Jessica filled out Emily’s adoption form, it was time for this lovely family to leave. We hugged and shook hands, and then they loaded up Teddy, and then Emily into their van! Tony took these pictures!


After they drove away, I told Tony, “Emily came back to the rescue ranch, because it wasn’t her forever home. This one is!” Then I teared up, again.

Y’all this is what it is all about! I love my job, and here’s a shout out to Jessica, Hays, Summer and Jackson—Y’all Rock!

P.S. I can’t wait to tell you what Tony and I are fixin’ to do! During breakfast this morning, we have decided to...

To Be Continued...

Hello Houston!

I hope that y'all had a great Thanksgiving! Ours was great, but I have a confession to make. Yesterday, after posting my blog, Tony came inside the trailer and said, "Nance, let's go to Kerrville for a Thanksgiving dinner! We'll eat the tamales, later. Okay?"

On our way to Kerrville, we couldn't decide where to eat—Sandy and Jon's, Luby's or The Cracker Barrel. "Maribeth told me that The Cracker Barrel was much better than Luby's," I said.

Tony wanted to eat at Luby's, until we saw their packed parking lot! We decided to check out The Cracker Barrel's parking lot before choosing. As Buttermilk pulled into the turning lane, I said, "Look, Tony—it's a sign! There's a parking space open—by the front door! This is where we are meant to eat! How cool is that!"

Buttermilk turned into the parking lot, and filled the empty parking space! The place was crowded, with people sitting outside, rocking in the rocking chairs. Just before we entered the restaurant, I said, "Wouldn't it be funny if Maribeth was here!"

Tony then opened the door for me, and a familiar voice said, "Nancy! Tony!" It was Maribeth! "After you sign in, come outside and I will sit with you, while you wait for your table." Tony went inside, as Maribeth and I went outside.

"Maribeth, I can't believe this!" I said. "I literally had just said your name, and then there you were!" We had a fun visit with Maribeth, her daughter, Terry, and her granddaughter, Britney. Our turkey dinner—without the turkey, was fine. Then we came home. Tony watched football games and I watched reruns of Newhart.

Tomorrow, at 5:00, Kinky and Little Jewford will be at 'Murder By The Book' store, in Houston, signing our 2009 calendar! And, Sunday, they will be at the Barnes & Noble, Town & Country, at 2:00 to autograph our calendars!
I hope everyone goes to see them, and buys one or more of our calendars!

Tony just brought the mail in, and he is laughing out loud, "This is addressed to us, but it's definitely meant for you!" Then he starts laughing, again! I just opened it. "Tony," I said."It is our first 2008 Christmas card, wishing us Happy Holidays!" Then I opened the card and it said, 'that I was cordially invited...to have my hearing tested—for free, on Monday, December 8th! I am laughing, and I just took these pictures of it.


I'm not going to Houston tomorrow with Kinky and Little Jewford, and I'm not going to get my hearing tested either, because I know that I would flunk. Happy Hearing!

The Calendars Are Nearly Sold Out!

Today has been great and exciting! This morning, while Tony, Aaron and me were eating breakfast, the phone rang, and I let the machine take the call, while I was talking to old Thunder, telling her how much I loved her. “Nancy! Nancy!” Aaron said. “You’ve got to take this call! It’s your credit card people—something about fraud—idenity theft!”

I got up from the kitchen table, just as the woman hung up. I went to the phone, and listened carefully to her message, and wrote down the 1-800 number. I then glanced at the Caller ID—and it read—Caller Unknown! Hmmm.......

After Tony and Aaron put their dishes into the kitchen sink, they went outside to go to work. I then called the 1-800 number. “Fraud Department. Please give me your credit card number. I need to know your credit card number.”

“What?” I asked, feeling that maybe a scam was going down.

“I need your credit card number, please.”

“Ma’am, I’m sorry, but I have no idea who you are,” I said. “I will call the phone number that is listed on my Visa bill. Goodbye.” I then opened up my Visa bill, and called the number on it. “This is Visa. How may I assist you?”

“Ma’am, this is Cousin Nancy, and I just received a phone call from y’all, I think. They said it had to do with identity fraud, and I can’t imagine anyone wanting to be me. When that woman asked me for my credit card number, I told her that I would call you directly.” The woman then switched me over to V.F.D.— their Visa Fraud Department.

I gave this woman my name and credit card number, then she asked me for my Social Security number, and a few other private things. “Yes, Ms. Simons, I’m sorry to tell you.There was an unauthorized purchase made yesterday on your credit card.”

“Oh my gosh!” I said, as I opened up the kitchen cabinet, and pulled out an aspirin, so not to have a heart attack! “Who is it and how much?” I was praying that they hadn’t maxed out my credit card.

“The charge was made by &^#$*^#, yesterday afternoon. The amount was for one dollar.”

“One dollar?” I asked.

“Yes. Do you want to approve that charge?”

“Nope.”

“Okay. We will now cancel your credit card, and reissue you a new card and number...”

After working that stuff out, my sister Cindy then phoned me. I told her all about the credit card deal, and she told me that it is called phishing. “They first make a small charge, to see if you notice, and then they gradually start increasing the amount.

“Cindy,” I said. “Thank goodness it was only for a dollar. Wouldn’t it have been funny, if I had told the woman, after she told me the amount, “Oh my gosh—they’ve maxed out my credit card!” Then she and I laughed and talked about our Thanksgiving plans, and other things.

Well, I hope that y’all have a great evening—Tony and I are planning to!

P.S. Ben has just called, and I have just found out that our Utopia Animal Rescue Ranch 2009 calendar, is now over three quarters sold out—I love it! I’m so proud of it! I hope that you were able to get one! I’m fixing to go to bed right now, because I’m doing Harley, in the morning, at the Rose 99.9 FM, Kerrville, Texas, at 7:45, while Kinky will be talking to Imus at 7:30! Good Night Everyone and Sweet Dreams!

Barnes and Noble-San Pedro, San Antone!

The calendar signing at Barnes and Noble was fantastic, and a lot of fun! I wish that all of y'all could have come to it! Kinky was great and Little Jewford was hilarious, as always! Our 2009 calendar celebrating ten years of our rescue—sold like hot cakes! People kept complimenting us on how much they loved Tony's and my pictures, etc.! I loved it! And B, who adopted Betty White was there, with her mother Gloria! Betty White loves her new family and they love her so much!

Tony and I were exhausted when we returned to the rescue ranch, and we went to bed early. I apologize for not blogging last night.

P.S. We've got heat! How cool is that!

True Love!

In the wee hours of the morning, Doug Everett and his fabulous crew, began cooking their authentic chuck wagon dinner, to be served later in the day, for over two hundred and forty people!

Saturday, at five in the morning, Tony and I were up! We fed our dogs and cat, and then T. took off to Medina to drink coffee with his friends. While he was away, I made Kinky’s giant birthday card, so everyone at the event could sign it! It looked okay, but it was not the best that I could do—after a sleepless night in Medina. After that, I dusted and vacuumed the trailer—just in case someone had to come inside!

When Tony returned around 7:45, I fixed him and Ben and me breakfast. Ben had spent the night in my writing cabin with his two dogs, Valerie and Penny. After breakfast, Ben went over to Kinky’s to help set up things.

When Tony and Aaron had finished feeding the dogs and cleaning their pens, they clipped on our walkie talkies, and went over to help Ben out. Then I grabbed a drinking glass, from the kitchen cabinet, and wrote the word ‘LOVE’ on it, and then I filled it with water. Then I took another aspirin for my heart, and then drank another glass of ‘worded water.’ I then said a few silent prayers for the event, and then I headed over to Kinky’s. By the time I had parked Trigger—I was filled with love, thanks to M. Emoto’s books—on the power of water! It really does work—I promise!

While Aaron and Ben set up the benches for the concert, A.J. Agiewich, Ben’s business merchandising partner, showed up, and he began setting up their merchandise tables, while Debora busily set up the items for the silent auction in the Gazebo.

After Tony and I had swept the leaves off of the Pavilion floor, the men went to fill the ice chests up with ice, and the water jugs, so I skipped over to the Lodge to see Kinky. His Lodge was full—everyone was in the kitchen and the vibes were great! His sweet sister, Marcie, who had flown in from Vietnam, for the event, was there, and the incredibly talented photographer, Brian Kanof, from El Paso, was there, too, with his better half—Jackie, and Jerome was there from Pasadena, Texas to help us! After a short visit with everyone, I left. I was on my way back to the rescue ranch to get ready, just as Dylan and Sage Ferrero arrived! They are our friends and had volunteered to help out with the parking over at Kinky’s.

By eleven thirty, our great friends and volunteers, Copper Love and Max Swafford were set up, outside of the rescue ranch, ready to greet our guests, and invite them to take a tour of the rescue ranch first, before going over to Kinky’s. Then our friends and wonderful volunteers, Carol Vail and Charlie Cooper arrived to help Tony and me give rescue ranch tours. Then Tony and Aaron arrived to help! We were ready for the event to start—let the fun begin!

At 12:00, Tony opened our rescue ranch gate, and the cars started arriving, and the nicest people on the planet, began walking into our rescue ranch—full of love and smiles and compliments! I don’t know if it was because I had drank those two glasses of ‘love worded water,’ that I saw things through rose-colored glasses, but all I know for sure was—love was definitely in everyone’s hearts! I loved it! Here are some pictures, that Tony and I took of the event! I wish that all of y’all could have been there!

Kinky giving tours of the rescue ranch!

Our dear friends, Dianne and Len Nowicki, showed up, and surprised me with a beautiful turtle for my birthday! It was absolutely gorgeous, and poor Len had to carry, the thirty pound turtle, all the way in! I love it and I plan to put it into Outer Space tomorrow! I gave them a tour of my Space Ship, and then we went into Outer Space for a fun visit! I love those two people!

“Welcome to the rescue ranch!” I said. “I’m Cousin Nancy. Where are y’all from?”

“California. I am Keith O., and this is my friend Jimmy, from San Antonio.”

“Keith?” I said. “Oh my gosh—I finally get to meet you in person, after all of these years!” We hugged and Tony shook hands with them. Then I invited them to go into Outer Space with me, for a visit!

Then our friend, Matt, from Austin, arrived with his latest pictures of Albert Einstein, a dog that we had rescued years ago! And, he joined us in Outer Space! It was a lot of fun and filled with laughter!

Here is a picture of the Gazebo full of items for the silent auction!

A picture of the people in line for their chuck wagon dinner! And, it was absolutely delicious and Kinky could not get over how great it was! He wants to use them again, for our future events!



Here is a picture that Tony took of Carol and Ben talking, with me in the background!

The concert:


P.S. After the concert, when I met Jimmie Dunn and his lovely wife, Nelda, from Arkansas, he confessed that he reads my blog, which absolutely delighted me! Then when he told me that he now has every book that Kinky has written, and his collection was now complete, because he had just bought a copy of “The Missing Puppet Head,” which is only available at Wolfmueller’s Books, where he had also purchased the fantastic book, “The Kinky Files,” the day before! I smiled, and then introduced him to the talented author, Max Swafford, who had written, “The Kinky Files”— because he was standing right behind us!

P.S.S. Love is definitely all you need—and it truly works! Thanks to everyone who came out to help us out on Saturday, and to everyone who has supported us through the years ! I love y’all so much! Have a great evening—I’m headed to bed, now—it’s past my bedtime! Good Night!

Oh My Gosh—We're Talking A Blast!

I don't know how Debora Hanson, single handedly pulled off such a great event, with her wrist broke, but I have to thank her, because I do not believe that I have ever had so much fun at an event! The weather was perfect! Doug Everett's Chuck wagon dinner was absolutely delicious! The volunteers were the cream of the crop! The performances by Washington Ratso, Little Jewford and Kinky— was incredibly great—along with Ruth Buzzi, one of my favorite funny ladies of all times—who made the crowd roar with laughter! And, not to brag—I got to meet her, and guess who was star struck and speechless—me!

As for the people attending, I felt like they were all family, and I really enjoyed meeting and talking to them!

I have so much to tell, but not tonight. I am fixing to go to bed, but I swear to you, that I will write more about it tomorrow—there's just too much to tell!

P.S. We had two fantastic dog adoptions because of the event! Princess was adopted to Jessica, who lives up in Fort Worth, who btw lives in the same neighborhood, that I grew up in—South Hills. And this afternoon, Tina Turner was adopted to a forever home, by a nice couple, Sally and Sonny, from North Richland Hills, which is right next to Ft. Worth! Fort Worth, Texas Rules!

P.S.S. People came from Oregon, California, Tennessee, Arkansas, Georgia, New Mexico, Texas, Vietnam and Slovenia to attend the event! And, we loved them all, and I hope that they will come back for the next one! Good night. Sweet dreams to all!